As the holiday season gets into full swing, the Ohio State Highway Patrol is stepping up its focus on keeping us safe. Throughout the holiday season, the patrol says it plans to be highly visible and is “committed to removing dangerous and impaired drivers, keeping Ohioans and our visitors safe.”

As Gov. Mike DeWine put it, there is never an excuse for driving impaired. Just because we are entering a season featuring plenty of celebration does not mean we throw our responsibilities to the wind.

According to the OSHP, since 2019 there have been more than 72,000 impaired driving-related crashes. Those led to the deaths of 3,920 people. Nearly 44,000 others were hurt. “Impaired” can mean alcohol, drugs or a combination of the two.

“Telling families that your loved one won’t be coming home is one of the most difficult duties our troopers face, especially during the holiday season,” said Patrol Superintendent Col. Charles A. Jones. “When you plan ahead and make responsible decisions, such as driving sober, you’re helping to ensure a safe holiday season for everyone.”

It’s a shame, but since 2019 Ohio troopers have had to issue more than 101,000 citations related to OVI. It is easy to see why they feel the need to have an even greater presence this season. But the public can help, too, by calling #677 to report reckless or impaired drivers and drug activity. (Just be sure you don’t become a distracted driver yourself by making the call.)

Wouldn’t it be nice if those troopers making themselves even more visible this holiday season had nothing to do?

Obey the speed limit and other rules of the road, pay attention — keep your hands off your phone, and for goodness sake do not drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Let’s keep the season merry and bright, for everyone.