LEE COUNTY, Fla. (WINK) \u2014\u00a0 As thousands of Southwest Floridians hit the roads, waterways and beaches for the Memorial Day weekend, law enforcement agencies across Lee County are increasing patrols in an effort to keep travelers safe.<\/p>\n
The Lee County Sheriff\u2019s Office announced it will deploy additional deputies, marine units and aerial support throughout the holiday weekend. The increased enforcement presence will focus on major roadways, beaches, parks and waterways where higher traffic volumes are expected.<\/p>\n
Deputies will be watching for impaired drivers, traffic violations and unsafe boating behavior while also positioning resources to respond quickly to emergencies.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur goal is to keep residents and visitors safe as they travel and enjoy the holiday weekend,\u201d the agency said in a statement.<\/p>\n
Sheriff Carmine Marceno also encouraged the community to remember the significance of Memorial Day as they enjoy the long weekend.<\/p>\n
\u201cMemorial Day is a solemn reminder of the men and women that gave everything protecting the ideals of America and freedoms around the world,\u201dMarceno said. \u201cWhile people remember these costs through private reflection or gatherings this holiday weekend, the Lee County Sheriff\u2019s Office stands ready and shows our respect through service and preparedness with extra patrols, increased visibility, and dedication to the safety of Lee County.\u201d<\/p>\n
The Florida Highway Patrol is also ramping up enforcement through a specialized impaired-driving initiative called \u201cOperation Dry Streets.\u201d<\/p>\n
The operation will run throughout Southwest Florida from Friday through Sunday and will utilize members of FHP\u2019s Elite DUI Squad and Aggressive Driving Unit.<\/p>\n
Troopers said the goal is to identify and remove impaired drivers before crashes occur during one of the busiest travel weekends of the year.<\/p>\n