Mississippi Highway Patrol will begin its 2021 Thanksgiving Holiday Travel Enforcement Period on Wednesday, Nov. 24, at 6 a.m. and conclude Sunday, Nov. 28, at midnight.

State Troopers will focus enforcement efforts on state and federal highways and interstate systems to reduce reckless driving, speeding and distracted driving issues. Safety checkpoints will be conducted throughout the period to enforce child restraint and seatbelt laws while also removing impaired drivers.

During the 2020 enforcement period, MHP investigated 246 crashes with six fatalities and made 115 DUI arrests.

“With many Mississippians traveling to spend Thanksgiving with their families and friends, we would like to remind citizens that it is up to each of us to keep the roads safe,” said Public Safety Commissioner Sean Tindell. “The Mississippi Highway Patrol will work to keep citizens safe by promoting seatbelt usage, deterring speeding and distracted driving, and removing impaired drivers from our roadways. We encourage motorists to do their part by practicing responsible driving habits. Slow down, avoid distracted driving and always wear a seatbelt.”

MHP Col. Randy Ginn said the emphasis is intended to reduce unsafe driving behavior, which lead to crashes and deaths.

“Our mission is to offer our assistance and provide safety for the many travelers throughout the holiday so that everyone can have a happy Thanksgiving,” Ginn said.