Thanksgiving weekend is historically one of the most dangerous holidays to be on the road, which is why the Austin Police Department and Mower County Sheriff’s Office will serve extra DWI enforcement for the weekend.

During Thanksgiving weekends in 2007-2009, 16 motorists were killed, 56 were seriously injured and 2,067 were arrested for DWI. Six of the 16 killed were alcohol-related.

“It’s devastating when families lose one of their own during a holiday, especially when the tragedy is so preventable,” Police Chief Brian Krueger said.

The two-day enforcement wave will also include seat belt ticketing. Drivers and all passengers must be belted or in the correct child restraint to avoid being pulled over and cited.

“Enforcing seat belt use and arresting DWI offenders are just a few of the things we do to ensure everyone’s safety on Minnesota roads,” said Sheriff Terese Amazi.

Krueger and Amazi suggest planning extra time for travel due to traffic conditions, paying extra attention to the road and making sure you have a sober driver if you plan on drinking.