WENATCHEE — The Washington State Patrol and local law enforcement agencies will be ramping up their DUI patrols through the end of the year.

With funding by the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, troopers and local officers started conducting extra patrols on Dec. 15, with the added emphasis expected to go through Jan. 1. Participating local agencies include: the Grant County Sheriff’s Office, Adams County Sheriff’s Office, Soap Lake Police Department, Warden Police Department, Ephrata Police Department, Grand Coulee Police Department, Moses Lake Police Department, Ritzville Police Department, Othello Police Department, Quincy Police Department, and the Royal City Police Department.

The extra patrols aim to put a high enforcement visibility on local roads, as impaired driving is the leading cause of traffic fatalities in Washington. The WSP reports that 40 people lose their lives around the state in traffic collisions every December.

“We can’t do it alone. We need everyone’s involvement and assistance to make this one of the safest holiday seasons ever,” WSP District 6 Commander Captain Rob Huss stated.

The extra patrols are a part of the WSP’s Project Zero, which aims to reduce traffic fatalities and deaths in the state to zero by the year 2030.

“Buckle up, drive for the conditions and never drive impaired by alcohol and/or drugs. Be responsible and arrange for a sober ride. Do your part and prevent a friend or family member from driving if they are not safe to do so. You can save a life,” stated the patrol in a release. “If you see a driver you believe to be impaired or driving aggressively, please call 911 with the vehicle’s description, direction of travel and license plate number if possible.”