You can expect to see more troopers the rest of the year

Dear Editor:

As people begin preparing for the holidays, most won't think twice about getting behind the wheel.

I want to encourage everyone now to begin thinking about safety as you and your families plan holiday trips and outings.

The Thanksgiving holiday begins another deadly stretch of time on our roadways lasting until New Year's. There has been a 142 percent increase in highway fatalities in Cherokee County this year.

The Highway Patrol is alerting motorists in this area and throughout the state that you will be seeing more enforcement in the last weeks of the year. Our goal is to curtail crashes and fatalities. Your local troopers care about your safety. This is our community too.

The most vital component of a safer community is you - the individual driver. We are asking you to take responsibility for your family; buckle up; always designate a sober driver; reduce your speed and keep your mind and eyes on the roadway at all times.

We want to wish everyone a safe and joyful holiday.

First Sergeant David Linehan South Carolina Highway Patrol

Troop 4 Post C