(KNZA)--Beginning Friday, August 20 and running through Labor Day, September 6, the Brown County Sheriffs office will join other local and state law enforcement agencies across the state in a crackdown aimed at removing drunk and other impaired drivers from the roadways. It's the “You Drink. You Drive. You Lose” campaign.

According to Brown County Sheriff John Merchant, the campaign is intended to remind drivers:  “Don’t consume impairing substances and get behind the wheel.” Merchant said impaired driving is a major cause of crashes and a danger not just to you and those riding with you, but to every single person on the road.

He said make it a habit to have a sober driver lined up before you drink alcohol away from home.

Merchant also reminds everyone to always have your seatbelts on, saying it’s your best defense in case of a crash.

He said you can always count on the Sheriff's Department to vigorously enforce impaired driving and other traffic laws, not just during this enforcement campaign but all through the year.”

“As the summer travel season comes to a close, the Kansas Highway Patrol will be working to ensure our travelers make it to their destinations safely. As you celebrate the upcoming Labor Day weekend, we urge everyone to play it safe and have a sober driver or use a rideshare service if you will be drinking,” said Lieutenant Candice Breshears. “If you are traveling and suspect another motorist may be impaired, please dial 911.”

If you’re traveling for the Labor Day holiday, the Patrol offers the following tips:

• Always wear your seatbelt every trip, every time. It’s your best defense against impaired drivers.

• Check your vehicle’s condition, including tires, fluid levels and mechanical equipment.

• Check road conditions at www.kandrive.org to look for construction or delays on your route.

• Allow plenty of time to arrive at your destination.

• Buckle up and make sure your children are in the appropriately fitted child safety seats.

• Have an emergency kit in your vehicle with essentials such as water, flashlights, chargers, blankets and non-perishable food.

• Always have a sober driver before you drink alcohol away from home or take a sober ride to and from the location if you will be consuming alcohol. Remember, this is your decision. 

• Before you take a new prescription medication, check your medication for driving warnings.

• Before you choose to drive after drinking, know that Kansas Ignition Interlock laws require that any driver convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) must install an Ignition Interlock Device, including an electronic log device, on every vehicle you own or which is registered to you. 

• Before you choose to drink and drive, think about your family, friends, coworkers and neighbors.