Kentucky State Police Post 12, which serves central Kentucky including Fayette County, is participating in Operation C.A.R.E. (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort) over Labor Day weekend to combat drunk and distracted driving, according to a statement from KSP.

The national traffic safety initiative runs September 4-7 and will feature increased patrols on highways and interstates throughout the region. Troopers will focus enforcement on impaired driving, speeding, distracted driving and seatbelt violations during the holiday weekend.

Kentucky State Police offered several safety recommendations for drivers. Motorists planning to drink should arrange transportation in advance by designating a driver, using a rideshare service or staying overnight. Drivers are also urged to wear seatbelts, which KSP noted is both the simplest safety measure and required by law. The agency emphasized the importance of maintaining attention on the road and avoiding mobile device use while driving.

For emergency vehicles, KSP reminded drivers to move over a lane when possible or significantly slow down to provide first responders safe working space on roadways.

The public is encouraged to report suspected impaired drivers to their local KSP Post or law enforcement agency. A map of Post locations is available on the Kentucky State Police website.