May 22, 2012 — The Memorial Day holiday traditionally marks the end of the school year and the beginning of summer, when many Californians head out to picnics, barbecues and outdoor events.

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reminds those headed out on the road to buckle up, designate a driver and eliminate distractions.

Memorial Day weekend is a Maximum Enforcement Period for the CHP.Officers will be out on the road looking for motorists who are a danger to themselves and others.

The Memorial Day holiday reporting period begins at 6 p.m. Friday, May 25, and runs through 11:59 p.m. Monday, May 28.

“If you are celebrating the Memorial Day holiday, we want you to have fun and be safe,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow.“If you get behind the wheel, make sure you buckle up and ensure your passengers do the same.Wearing your seat belt can save your life and the lives of those you love.”

Memorial Day weekend in 2011 saw a significant increase in the number of people killed in collisions.

According to CHP statistics, there were 24 deaths statewide, a 41 percent increase from the previous year, and 60 percent of those killed were not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.

There were 1,367 arrests for driving under the influence statewide in CHP jurisdiction during the holiday weekend.

The CHP’s holiday enforcement effort coincides with the 2012 “Click It or Ticket” seat belt enforcement campaign, which continues nationwide through June 3.