With Halloween celebrated on a Saturday this year, law enforcement agencies will be out in force looking for drunken drivers this weekend.

“Halloween not only is a time for kids to trick or treat, it’s also a night of partying for adults, especially when the holiday falls on a weekend. Unfortunately, some adults don’t celebrate responsibly and choose to get behind the wheel while impaired. To save lives and prevent injuries, law enforcement officers are ready to stop, test and arrest drunken drivers this weekend,” says David Pabst, director of the Wisconsin Department of Transportation’s (WisDOT) Bureau of Transportation Safety.

Last year in Wisconsin, one person was killed in a traffic crash on Halloween, which fell on a Friday. Two people died in crashes the last time Halloween fell on Saturday, which was in 2009, according to WisDOT.

To combat drunken driving on Halloween, WisDOT offers the following advice:

• Download the free “Zero In Wisconsin Drive Sober” mobile app. This app includes a find-a-ride feature that uses a smart phone’s GPS system to locate alternative transportation, a blood alcohol estimator, designated driver selector, and interactive games to help determine whether someone should give up their car keys. The app can be downloaded for free by visiting www.zeroinwisconsin.gov/drivesober/.
• If you’re feeling buzzed, you probably are over the 0.08 limit and should not drive. Take mass transit, a taxicab or ask a sober friend to drive you home.
• Some taverns and restaurants have programs to provide patrons with a safe ride home. Visit www.tlw.org for more information.
• If you see a drunken driver, call 911 immediately.