The national Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign is in full swing.

Washington law enforcement officers have joined the national campaign aimed at reducing the number of intoxicated drivers on the roads and saving lives in the process.

Extra patrols are scheduled from Aug. 17 to Sept. 5. The Grays Harbor County Sheriff’s Office along with the Aberdeen, Elma, Hoquiam, Montesano and Ocean Shores Police Departments and the Washington State Patrol, are participating in the campaign through the coordination of the Grays Harbor Target Zero Task Force.

“We will have multi-agency cooperation on this, and will have an additional three to four officers on duty per night,” said Grays Harbor County Undersheriff Dave Pimentel.

Pimentel added that in addition to drivers who have consumed alcohol, the effort will also focus on drivers on drugs.

“Since the legalization of cannabis there has been a huge spike in drivers under the influence of marijuana,” Pimentel said. “And and the statewide number of collisions has increased.”

Besides marijuana and illegal drugs, people should be aware that prescribed medications and over-the-counter drugs can also impair a driver’s ability to drive safely.

“We want drivers to be as aware of the dangers of driving under the influence of drugs as they are of the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol,” said Darrin Grondel, Washington Traffic Safety Commission Director. “Before you drive, make sure your mind is alert and ready for the important task of driving. Don’t risk getting arrested for a DUI or causing a life-changing tragedy. Designate a sober, drug-free driver, catch a ride share, or walk with a buddy.”