WFRV - With the holidays in full swing, local law enforcement agencies are teaming up with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to deliver a critical message: Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over. According to a Facebook post from the Marathon County Sheriff's Office, the campaign runs from December 11 through January 1, 2025, and includes heightened patrol units to remove drunk drivers from the road. Scam Alert: Door County residents targeted by fraud calls Participating police agencies include the Marathon County Sheriff’s Office, Wausau Police Department, Mountain Bay Metropolitan Police Department, Mosinee Police Department, Marathon Police Department, and Marshfield Police Department. The post says that drunk driving remains a leading cause of fatal crashes in the U.S., particularly during the holiday season. Between 2018 and 2022, alcohol-impaired driving claimed 4,759 lives in December alone. In December 2022, 1,062 people were killed in drunk driving crashes, with males and drivers aged 21-34 at the highest risk. Drunk driving is deadly and illegal, and it should never be an option for getting home. We want everyone to enjoy the holidays responsibly. There are too many safe alternatives to justify getting behind the wheel while impaired. Lt. Michael Van Offeren - Marathon County Sheriff's Office UPDATE: Trial dates pushed into 2025 for Bonduel woman charged in embezzlement scheme Law enforcement encourages everyone to come up with a plan if drinking is part of their holiday celebrations. Options suggested by law enforcement include: Using a designated sober driver. Calling a taxi or rideshare service. Hand over your keys to a trusted friend or family member if you’re unable to drive. The post highlights that drivers should expect to see increased patrols on December 28, as local police conduct a high-visibility enforcement effort. This initiative aims to stop impaired driving and keep roads safe for everyone. For more information about the dangers of impaired driving, visit NHTSA’s website.