KITSAP — The Washington State Patrol will be emphasizing patrols for people driving while under the influence over the holiday weekend.

With the Washington Traffic Safety Commission funding local emphasis patrols, troopers from the WSP will be working overtime to provide extra coverage over the hours when most DUI-related collisions occur, including holiday weekends.

Since the emphasis began on Nov. 25, 2015, WSP troopers have made 1,205 DUI arrests statewide.

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

Troopers use data in their emphasis patrols to help predict the areas where DUIs are most likely to cause an accident.

Although enforcement is a key component of changing driver behavior, seat belts and other occupant protection devices are saving lives as well. 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.

There’s one more thing everyone can do to help make for a joyous and safe holiday season: use your influence to help keep others from driving while impaired. Saving a life is the best gift you can give this holiday season.

Anyone who witnesses an impaired or dangerous driver is strongly encouraged to call 911 and report the incident immediately.