For the past 21 years, law enforcement agencies throughout Washington have conducted “Night of 1,000 Stars” impaired-driving traffic-safety emphasis patrols, with each star symbolizing the badge worn by an on-duty law enforcement officer.

This year’s “Stars” patrol is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, Dec. 16 and 17, across the state, including Snohomish County.

The statewide enforcement will coordinate available resources to remove impaired drivers from our roads. Impaired driving caused by alcohol or other drugs is the primary reason people die in motor vehicle crashes.

Officers will also be on the lookout for people who speed, drive aggressively, are not wearing a seatbelt or violate other traffic laws. Wintertime driving can be hazardous, but when mixed with alcohol or drugs it becomes deadly.

Remember to celebrate safely and choose your ride:

• Avoid beverages with alcohol.

• Make plans to have a designated sober driver before going out.

• Arrange to stay overnight if necessary.

• Use a taxi.

• Take the car keys of impaired friends and arrange a safe ride home for them.

The “Night of 1,000 Stars” is a cooperative effort involving the statewide Target Zero Traffic Safety Task Forces, the Washington Traffic Safety Commission and law enforcement agencies throughout Washington.

For more information on the program in Snohomish County, contact Tracy McMillan, Snohomish County DUI and Target Zero Task Force manager, at 425-388-7229 or tracy.mcmillan@snoco.org.