If planning to hit the road during the holidays, know that California Highway Patrol officers will be out in full force, not just during the Maximum Enforcement Period from Christmas Eve through Sunday midnight, but also at more than 250 checkpoints, statewide through January 3. The CHP has declared 2010 as “The Year of the Checkpoint,” and given a record $8 million in grant funding, more than 2,500 sobriety checkpoints will be conducted in California this coming year and, per our local CHP office in Running Springs, more than 250 checkpoints are planned through January 3 as part of the December DUI crackdown campgain: “Report Drunk Drivers. Call 911.” Per CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow, “The holidays are about family, friends and celebration. Unfortunately, it’s also a time of year when we see too many alcohol-related fatalities.” So, in addition to suggestions to watch your speed and buckle up, Farrow adds, “Driving impaired is not worth the consequences. Pre-plan your holiday celebration by designating a non-drinking driver before the event. If you see a drunk driver, call 911.”