BELLINGHAM, WA. – (KGMI.com) The annual statewide holiday DUI enforcement campaign started last week, and early results show the increased patrols are catching impaired drivers.

During this time of year, Washington tends to see an increase of fatality collisions and DUIs according to Washington State Patrol spokesperson Kelsey Harding.

On Friday, December 15th, Lynden Police put out an extra seven officers, a greater than average officer count compared to similar size departments in the state.

Over the course of the day, LPD officers arrested six people driving under the influence out of 66 drivers pulled over.

WSP is not expecting to increase patrols until a few days before Christmas.

The Traffic Safety Commission wants drivers to be aware of the increased patrols and to avoid driving while impaired.

Some advice the commission gives includes designating a sober driver before drinking, pre-planning your travel home through taxi or rideshare, staying the night with others and using public transportation.

Legislature that the state is considering in next year’s session would lower the BAC level from .08% to .05%.