(Radio Iowa) – Saint Patrick’s Day is next Friday and next week is traditionally one of the deadliest weeks of the year for motorists and pedestrians in Iowa and nationwide. Sheri Krohn, program administrator of the Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau, says they’re partnering with local law enforcement to launch a nine-day effort this weekend, spreading the message about the dangers of drinking and driving — and to take impaired drivers off the road. “There’s a lot of celebrations surrounding this holiday which means an increase in alcohol consumption and an increase in pedestrian traffic, and it can also be a nighttime event,” Krohn says. “This year, the holiday is on a Friday which will again increase the amount of activities and pedestrians in the area.”

The program starts this Saturday and runs through next Sunday, March 19th. Krohn says if you’re at a St. Pat’s party on foot, you’ll need to be especially cautious. “Pedestrians can limit their number of drinks, stay alert while they’re walking, stay off of their phones, use crosswalks,” Krohn says, “and most importantly, make sure that you make eye contact with the driver before crossing the street.” During the week of St. Patrick’s Day last year, 48 people were either seriously injured or killed in car crashes on Iowa’s roads. “Drivers should also stay alert, slow down, stay off their electronics,” she says. “Everyone needs to play a part to stay safe.”

If you’re going to drink, Krohn says to make the smart choice and plan for a sober ride. If you’re the designated driver, she says to make sure you keep that promise of safety to yourself and your passengers.