As the nation prepares to celebrate Independence Day, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) reminds everyone to plan ahead for a safe holiday for you and your family.  This year the holiday falls on a Thursday; for many, it could turn into a four-day weekend full of celebration and good times.

In conjunction with the Independence Day holiday, the CHP will engage in a Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP).  Officers will be focusing enforcement out on the road during the long holiday break, looking for motorists who are a danger to themselves or others on our state’s highways.  The MEP begins Wednesday, July 3, at 6 p.m. and continues through Sunday, July 7, at 11:59 p.m.

“We want the public to enjoy their family, friends, food and fireworks,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow.  “However, that fun should not come at the expense of someone’s personal safety and the safety of those on the road with them.”

Last year’s Fourth of July MEP was only 30 hours long, but tragically resulted in nine people being killed in California.  In addition, CHP officers made 479 arrests for driving under the influence during that same time period.

The CHP encourages motorists to put a plan in place to save lives on the road this Independence Day.  A great start to a safe and enjoyable holiday begins by following a few helpful tips.

* If your Independence Day celebration includes drinking alcohol, arrange for a friend or family member who will not be drinking to be the “Designated Driver.”

* Always wear your seat belt.  Make sure all passengers, adults and children, are also buckled up.

* Watch your speed.  Stay at or below the limit, depending upon road conditions.

* Plan ahead if you will drive long distances.  Add extra time to your trip so you will not feel rushed and take a break every hour or so to get refreshed.