The Wareham Police Department will be stepping up patrols looking to nab drunk drivers during the holiday season as part of the federally funded Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over initiative,. from Dec. 13 to Jan. 1, 2014.

Across the state, 191 law enforcement agencies, as well the state police, will be participating.

“You’ll see us making lots of stops during this highly visible enforcement period and if we suspect anyone is driving while intoxicated, officers will show zero tolerance for impaired driving,” said Interim police chief Kevin Walsh.

“The message is simple:  Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.  Drinking alcohol and driving do not mix.  If you plan to consume alcohol, you should also plan not to get behind the wheel of a vehicle,” he continued.

Research shows that the holiday season is a particularly deadly time due to the increased number of impaired drivers on the roads. One-hundred-and-fourteen people in Massachusetts were killed due to crashes involving drivers with a blood alcohol content of .08 or higher.

“Don’t let your 2013 holiday season end in an arrest or worse, death or injury. Remember, whether you’ve had way too many or just one too many, it’s not worth the risk,” said Walsh.

“This holiday season, we will show zero tolerance for those driving under the influence on the road. If you choose to drive drunk, we will see you, we will stop you, and you will be arrested,” said Chief Walsh.

The Executive Office of Public Safety and Security’s Highway Safety Division has issued the following tips for staying safe this holiday season.

• Plan a safe way home before the festivities begin.
• Before drinking, designate a sober driver and leave your car keys at home.
• If you’re impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation.
• If you happen to see an impaired driver on the road, don’t hesitate to contact law enforcement.
• If you know someone who is about to drive while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get home safely.

For more information, visit www.mass.gov/highwaysafety.