Don’t rely on the luck of the Irish when it comes to drinking and driving. Idaho Falls Police Department encourages you to get a designated driver instead.

The IFPD is teaming up with the Idaho Transportation Department and other law enforcement agencies during the St. Patrick’s Day Impaired Driving Mobilization. Law enforcement will be conducting education campaigns and high-visibility enforcement patrols statewide searching for drunk and impaired drivers March 10-20.

The IFPD received $2,500 in funding from ITD’s Office of Highway Safety to help pay for additional enforcement to support this important safety campaign.

“Our agency is committed to helping keep our roadways safe,” IFPD Police Chief Mark McBride said. “We’re glad to be able to provide extra patrols during the next couple of weeks to help combat impaired driving.”

ITD and the IFPD offer these tips for safe driving:

• If you plan on consuming alcohol, designate a sober driver before leaving and give that person your keys.

• Call a taxi, sober friend or family member to get you home safely if you’re impaired.

• Promptly report drunk drivers to law enforcement.

• Wear your seatbelt while in your car or use a helmet and protective gear when on a motorcycle. These are defenses against an impaired driver.

• If you know someone who is about to drive while impaired, take his or her keys and help make other safe travel arrangements.