POULSBO — If you choose to drive while impaired this holiday weekend, the Washington State Patrol is committed to making sure you are arrested and successfully prosecuted.

The Washington Traffic Safety Commission is funding local emphasis patrols, in which troopers from the Washington State Patrol will work overtime to provide extra coverage at the hours when most DUI-related collisions occur.

Since the emphasis patrols began on Nov. 25, WSP troopers have made 1,205 DUI arrests statewide.

“Every impaired driver we arrest and take off the road is a potential life saved,” WSP Chief John Batiste said in a press release. “Impaired driving accidents are preventable; the choice begins before you get behind the wheel of a vehicle.”

In the emphasis patrols, troopers are guided by data that helps predict the areas where DUIs are most likely to cause a tragedy. The state patrol encourages anyone who witnesses an impaired or dangerous driver to call 9-1-1 and report the incident immediately.

“Although enforcement is a key component of changing driver behavior, seat belts and other occupant protection devices are saving lives as well,” state patrol reported. “Being a sober driver protects you from yourself; buckling up helps protect you from the irresponsible driver. Also, with winter weather conditions this holiday weekend, drivers need to slow down and keep adequate stopping distances.

“Use your influence to help keep others from driving while impaired. Saving a life is the best gift you can give this holiday season.”