Law enforcement officers from across the state will begin a crackdown on drunken driving Thursday.

The crackdown, which lasts through Labor Day, will be aggressive, according to the Kansas Highway Patrol. A higher-than-usual number of KHP troopers and law enforcement officers from at least 100 additional agencies across the state will be on the streets and highways enforcing Kansas drunken driving and other traffic laws.

“Their aim is to drastically reduce the number of preventable deaths and injuries that occur when alcohol is mixed with driving,” said Tim McCool, KHP technical trooper.

“We’re not saying, ‘Don’t drink before traveling,’ said Capt. Steve Zeller, a KHP commander. “Just use a sober driver when you do.”

The crackdown – called “Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest.” – is supported by a Kansas Department of Transportation grant.

Six people are killed or injured in alcohol-related crashes on an average day, according to state statistics.