photo by: Kim Callahan/Journal-World

A Lawrence Police Department patrol vehicle is pictured June 28, 2022.

The Lawrence Police Department announced Monday it will increase its presence around the holidays to combat drunk driving.

The department announced in a press release Monday it will join law enforcement across the state by joining the “Taking Down DUI” campaign from Dec. 26 to Jan 2. The campaign will allow for an increased law enforcement presence during those dates.

LPD said the campaign is part of helping the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration share the reminder to “drive sober or get pulled over.” Many holiday celebrations include alcohol, and LPD said officers will “be on high alert” across the campaign.

The timing of the campaign is no coincidence. According to the NHTSA, New Year’s Eve, Dec. 31, is one of the deadliest days of the year for impaired driving. Additionally, in December 2023, the most recent data year available, 1,038 people died in drunk driving-related crashes.

As part of the release, Lawrence Police said to residents, “If you are drinking, do not drive.” It included a list of suggestions of how to be a responsible driver, including planning a safe ride home before the party — either a ride-share, taxi or sober driver — and taking away someone’s keys if they have been drinking and arranging a sober ride home for them.

For more information on impaired driving and the upcoming campaign, you can visit the NHTSA’s website.