The heat is on this winter as increased statewide law enforcement begins Thursday to keep roads safe during the holiday party season.

From Dec. 12 through the 25th Colorado State Patrol and 75 local law enforcement agencies will increase their presence across state, county, and local roads. This is an annual campaign in response to an increase in impaired driving-related crashes and fatalities around the holidays. As of Dec. 9, 30% of all traffic fatalities this year have involved an impaired driver.

“Colorado law enforcement made 1,350 DUI arrests last December alone. Avoid a DUI this holiday season by making a plan for a sober ride,” said Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol.

If you plan to host a holiday party, make sure your guests stay safe. The Colorado Department of Transportation is suggesting some tips such as collecting your guests’ car keys upon arrival, encouraging them to designate a sober driver or use a service, offering them a place to stay if a sober ride home is unavailable, stop serving alcohol at least two hours before the party is over, and providing plenty of food and non-alcoholic drink options.

“If you plan to drink, plan a sober ride home. Use a rideshare service, taxi, designated driver or public transit to get home safely. Just never drive impaired,” said CDOT’s Office of Transportation Safety Director Darrell Lingk.

CDOT is also reminding drivers about a new law going into effect on Jan. 1, 2025, prohibiting the use of a cell phone or other mobile device while driving.

The penalty for a first offense violation is a $75 fine and 2 license suspension points. The penalty increases for repeat offenders. However there are exemptions for those reporting emergencies, utility workers, code enforcement officers, animal protection officers, first responders, drivers in parked vehicles, and those with a commercial driver’s license operating a commercial vehicle.

Although, first-time violators may have the charge dismissed if they provide proof of purchasing a hands-free accessory. CDOT is encouraging drivers to begin practicing hands-free driving now so they are prepared.

For yearly impaired-driving crash and fatality data in Colorado, visit www.codot.gov/safety/traffic-safety/data-analysis/fatal-crash-data.

For local law enforcement agency plans, visit www.codot.gov/safety/traffic-safety-reporting-portal.