Thanksgiving may have been yesterday, but a safety initiative that the Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau and law enforcement throughout the state are doing is still in effect.

Iowa State Patrol Trooper Shelby McCreedy says that the Special Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) Wave continues into next week, and that law enforcement officers will be out in extra numbers to help make sure drivers are being safe. She tells Raccoon Valley radio tips she shares with individuals around the holidays.

“In addition to the standard, you know, wear your seat belt, obey the speed limit, put the phone down, don’t drive distracted or impaired, the tips that I tend to give people for this time of the year is first of all, for the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, plan for extra travel time because there will be an increase of vehicles on the roadway. And so give yourself a little additional time so that way you’re not tempted to speed if you’re running late.”

McCreedy mentions that drivers should also anticipate slower traffic around this time, as there are more people driving to and from their destinations for the holiday. She also adds that for those who are planning on traveling, keeping an eye on the weather is important as well.