The California Highway Patrol is having its annual Thanksgiving Maximum Enforcement Period from 6:01 p.m. Wednesday through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, aiming to ensure safety for millions of holiday travelers, the CHP said in a statement Monday.

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CHP officers statewide will focus on promoting seat belt use and preventing impaired driving during the extended weekend.

“Thanksgiving is a time for togetherness, and our mission is to ensure everyone reaches their destinations safely,” said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee. “We encourage everyone to prepare their vehicles for travel, leave early to account for heavy traffic, buckle up, and never drive impaired. The well-being and safety of others starts with making good decisions behind the wheel.”

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Last year’s Thanksgiving MEP resulted in 1,047 DUI arrests and 27 fatal crashes within CHP jurisdiction. Among the 17 people killed in those incidents, five were not wearing seat belts, officials said.

Drivers are urged to prepare vehicles for travel, leave early, and prioritize safe driving.

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The CHP reminds all motorists to buckle up, avoid distractions, and never drive under the influence to ensure a safe holiday season.