“We will have additional officers out, especially around the arena area during the game time, and you may see more officers out than you normally do.”

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Downtown Sacramento was already buzzing on Thanksgiving Eve as bar crowds, holiday travelers and a Sacramento Kings game at DOCO converged, creating one of the busiest nights of the year. Sacramento Police, CHP and local businesses said they are preparing to keep people safe.

Businesses in the Lavender Heights District said the night before Thanksgiving consistently draws large crowds. John Boss, general manager at Roscoe’s Bar & Burger on K Street, said it ranks among the busiest days in the nightclub industry, even edging out Halloween for some.

Boss and his staff expect long lines and heavy foot traffic and have added security for the night. He said businesses in the area coordinate with one another because emergencies can affect everyone nearby.

About a mile away, thousands of fans were expected to crowd into DOCO for the Kings game. Sacramento Police spokesman Anthony Gamble said officers know people will be out enjoying restaurants and bars and plan to increase staffing through the holiday season. He said more officers will be visible around the arena and the department will be using its real-time information center to monitor public safety cameras.

CHP’s Valley Division said it expects a major surge in traffic as people head out to visit family and friends. Spokesperson Ruben Jones said officers are watching for speeding, reckless driving and impaired driving. He said impaired driving refers not only to alcohol but also to drug use. CHP said it wants to stop those drivers before they harm themselves or others. Jones said a DUI can cost someone more than $10,000, their license, their freedom or their life.

CHP said officers will also be checking for seatbelt use. Sacramento Police said people can help by alerting officers if they see anything concerning.

WATCH MORE ON ABC10 | Thanksgiving travel rush at Sacramento International Airport

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