Local police departments are increasing patrols during the independence day weekend, and their emphasis remains targeting driving while intoxicated (DWI) infractions.
The effort comes as part of the lifesaver weekend programs aimed at holidays and the NY State Stop DWI association, according to Herkimer Police Chief Joseph Malone.
Funding for the additional hours required is coming through the association, said Malone, who plans to utilize three additional officers for village-wide coverage of traffic violations.
In 2006, 27 percent of all drivers involved in accidents during the Fourth of July holiday period (6 p.m. Friday, June 30 to 5:59 a.m., Wednesday July 5) possessed a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08, which is the legal limit, or higher, according to a release to a Herkimer police release.
“Too many people still don’t understand that alcohol, drugs and driving just don’t mix. Impaired driving is no accident—nor is it a victimless crime. Too many lives are being lost and we need everyone’s help to stop it.” stated Malone.
In the village of Ilion extra DWI patrols have been designated, and an officer will be on, “During the usual hours these people may be driving intoxicated,” said Ilion Police Chief Tim Parisi. “Anywhere from 8 to 9 p.m. to 3 to 4 to 5 a.m.”
There is a difference between these patrols that target intoxicated motorists and the regular variety which focus on response, property damage, and burglaries among other daily department needs.
Since a lot of DWI stops result from minor traffic violations, the best way to focus on curbing them is to concentrate on high-traffic areas, said Parisi. “That’s not to say there won’t be patrols on the side roads, as there is always such a presence...but you see a lot of the people returning from events on the main routes.”
Little Falls Police Chief Michael Masi said, “There will be a couple of extra shifts on (during the July 4 weekend).”
Also, the Herkimer County Sheriff Department is assisting area municipalities, such as the town of Webb and village of West Winfield, to deal with a surge in population due to events and celebrations, according to Sheriff Christopher Farber. 
The idea being that an increase in police presence acts as a deterrent and causes people to think twice about breaking the law.
“It helps people to behave a little better.” said Farber, who is on the Stop DWI Advisory Board. “Prevention is always better than responding to something after the fact.”
Some of the steps Malone suggested to help stop DWI are: Plan a safe way home before the festivities begin; Before drinking, please designate a sober driver and give that person your keys; If you’re impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation so you are sure to get home safely; If you happen to see a drunk driver on the road, don’t hesitate to contact local law enforcement.