Drink responsibly this St. Patrick’s Day weekend as the Long Beach Police Department announced today that they will be deploying additional officers on special DUI saturation patrols between Saturday at 6:00PM and Sunday at 3:00AM.

Police, Sheriff’s deputies and the California Highway Patrol will be looking for signs of alcohol and/or drug impairment.

“When possible, specially trained officers will be available to evaluate those suspected of drug-impaired driving, which now accounts for a growing number of impaired driving crashes,” officials stated.

In 2016, 60 people were killed in drunk-driving crashes over the St. Patrick’s Day holiday.

“St. Patrick’s Day is one of the most popular holidays in the United States, the holiday is heavily celebrated by most people with friendly pinches, bangers n’ mash, and green beer galore,” stated officials. “Sadly, all this merry-making can lead to dangerous driving conditions as party-goers head home.”

The LBPD recommends the following safe alternatives to drinking and driving:

• Always remember to plan ahead. If you plan to drink, plan for a sober driver to take you home. Is it your turn to be the designated driver? Take that role seriously—your friends are relying on you!
• There are many other ways to ensure a safe ride home besides relying on a friend. The OTS DDVIP app is now available for free download on iOS and Android devices. The app offers enhanced features, allowing users to search all participating bars and restaurants throughout California. Additionally, the app allows users to easily order a sober ride from Uber, Lyft or Curb.
• Have a friend who is about to drink and drive? Take the keys away and make arrangements to get them home safely.
• Always remember to report drunk drivers – call 911.

The enforcement effort is funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.