If you plan on partying for the Super Bowl, the New York State Police have a message for you: They'll be watching.

Major Michael Cerreto announced that the New York State Police in Troop A, which includes all of East Niagara, will join other law enforcement agencies in a special effort to crackdown on impaired and distracted driving over the weekend.

While STOP-DWI and distracted driving efforts across New York State have led to significant reductions in the numbers of alcohol, drug and texting-while-driving related fatalities, lives are still being lost because of crashes caused by impaired and/or distracted drivers, according to a press release from NYSP. Highly visible, highly publicized efforts like the STOP-DWI Crackdown and texting-while-driving campaigns aim to raise awareness and reduce drunk or distracted driving.

“During this campaign period, drivers can expect to see sobriety checkpoints, dedicated DWI enforcement patrols, underage drinking and sales to minors details across New York State," according to State Police Superintendent Joseph A. D’Amico. "Our Troopers will also be working to keep motorists and pedestrians safe on New York’s roadways by identifying drivers who are illegally using hand held devices while driving."

"Everyone knows that drinking and driving can be a lethal combination, and so can texting and driving. These actions not only risk the life of the driver, but other innocent drivers on the road," Ceretto said. "We are asking motorists to not take chances, if you are going to drink, don't drive, have a designated driver or arrange other transportation to and from your event. Don't use your phone while driving, that text or that call can wait until you get to your location or safely pull over and stop."

Whether attending the game, watching at a bar, or hosting a party, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, TEAM Coalition, the NFL and the New York State Police remind everyone that Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk.

The NHTSA offers these additional safety tips:

If you’re attending a Super Bowl party or watching the game at a sports bar or restaurant:

• Designate your sober driver, or plan another way to get home safely before the party begins.
• If you don’t have a designated driver, then ask a sober friend for a ride home; call a cab, friend, or family member to come and get you; or just stay for the night.
• Use your community’s sober ride program.
• Never let friends drive if they have had too much to drink.

If you’re hosting a Super Bowl party:

• Make sure all your guests designate a sober driver in advance, or arrange for alternate transportation to ensure they get home safely.
• Serve food and include non-alcoholic beverages at the party.
• Stop serving alcohol at the end of the third quarter of the game and begin serving coffee and dessert.

As always, remember to wear your seat belt.  It can save your life.

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