Merriam police want you to think about your loved ones before you decide to drink and drive. That’s why officers are stepping up drunk driving patrol to target impaired drivers during the annual “You Drink. You Drive. You Lose.” campaign that starts tomorrow.

The statewide campaign is sponsored by the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) and aims to remove drunk and impaired drivers from Kansas roadways.

Merriam police officers will look for cues usually related to driving while intoxicated (DWI) violations such as weaving, speed changes, unsafe lane changes, and other indicators related to impaired drivers.

“Merriam officers will vigorously enforce impaired driving and other traffic laws during this two-week campaign,” Merriam Police Captain Troy Duvanel said. “We want you to come home safe to your friends and family.”

The Merriam Police Department will join nearly 190 law enforcement agencies across the state as part of the campaign that runs through Labor Day.

Drivers who fail DWI tests and are convicted can serve up to one year in jail, lose their driver’s license, and pay up to $10,000 in fines and other costs.