For many Americans, St. Patrick's Day has become a popular night to celebrate with friends and family. Unfortunately, due to impaired drivers, it can also be very dangerous.

In 2008, 37 percent of the drivers and motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes on St. Patricks Day had a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or above, according to statistics by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. In Snohomish County this year, law enforcement will be out in increased numbers to remove impaired drivers.

"We dont need any more injuries and deaths associated with impaired driving on our county and city roadways," said Snohomish County Executive Aaron Reardon. "These are collisions that can be prevented with common sense: Use a designated driver." Additional NHTSA statistics show that in 2008, there were 134 crash fatalities on St. Patrick's Day.

Out of that number, 50 people were killed in traffic crashes that involved at least one driver or motorcyclist with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher. "Driving impaired is simply not worth the risk," said Tracy McMillan, Snohomish County DUI and Target Zero Traffic Safety Task Force Manager. "You not only risk killing someone else or yourself, but the trauma and financial costs of a crash or an arrest can be really significant."

Here are some easy steps for a safe St. Patrick's Day:

• Plan a safe way home before the festivities begin;
• Before drinking, please designate a sober driver and leave your car keys at home;
• If youre impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation so you are sure to get home safely;
• If you happen to see a drunk driver on the road, dont hesitate to contact your local law enforcement;
• And remember, if you know someone who is about to drive or ride while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get to where they are going safely.