AUBURN - The Auburn Police Department has extended its enforcement crackdown into 2009.

"We will be out in force making sure impaired drivers are off the road," Chief Phil Crowell said. "Our goal is to ensure a safe holiday for everyone, those in violation will deal with the consequences of impaired driving. If we catch you, we will arrest you. No exceptions. No excuses."

The crackdown is titled: Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest.

Last week, both Auburn and Lewiston police coordinated a drunken-driving checkpoint on the Longley Bridge to launch the crackdown.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in December 2007, 992 people were killed in crashes that involved an impaired driver or motorcycle rider with a blood alcohol concentration of .08 or higher - above the legal limit in every state as well as the District of Columbia.

In 2007, 12,998 fatalities occurred in crashes involving a driver or motorcycle rider who had a .08 percent blood alcohol level, compared with 13,491 in 2006. Crowell emphasized the critical role law enforcement plays in helping solve this serious problem.

"Even though we've seen nationwide reductions in impaired driving deaths since 2007, our work is far from over" he said. "Too many people continue to suffer tragic injuries and the loss of a loved one as a result of this serious crime."

The Auburn Police Department recommends designating a sober driver and not letting friends drive impaired as just two of several simple steps to avoid a tragic crash or an arrest for impaired driving. Other important tips include:

• Plan ahead: Whenever you plan on consuming alcohol, designate your sober driver before

going out, and give that person your keys.

• If you're impaired, call a taxi or call a sober friend or family member to get you home

safely.

• Promptly report impaired drivers you see on the roads to law enforcement.

• Wear a seat belt, which is the best defense against an impaired driver.

For more information, visit www.StopImpairedDriving.org.