Local law enforcement is joining other law enforcement agencies around Minnesota in increased patrol shifts to crack down on drunk and impaired driving.

The enforcement period, running from Aug. 18 to Sept. 3, is part of the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Office of Traffic Safety’s Toward Zero Deaths traffic safety program. The MNDPS provides funding to pay officers for overtime shifts spent in DWI enforcement.

“Even though these shifts are for DWI enforcement, this does not mean officers will not pull someone over for distracted driving,” said Austin Police Chief Brian Krueger. Distracted driving enforcement is another major aspect of the Toward Zero Deaths program.

Statistics show that the number of DWI arrests have declined over the years, as noted by Office of Traffic Safety director Donna Berger.

“Through education and enforcement, most Minnesotans are making the right choice when it comes to lining up a sober ride,” she said. “The state has seen a decline in DWI arrests over the past ten years, but we still have a long way to go.”

The number of DWI arrests in 2016 was 23,392, down from 25,336 in 2015.

DWI fatalities also decreased from 95 in 2015 to 73 in 2016.

“One drunk driver is one too many,” Berger said. “We can significantly reduce the amount of fatalities on our roads if everyone would plan a sober ride every single time they decide to drink.”