The Orland Park Police Department has scheduled increased patrols this week, with special attention to the period from midnight Dec. 31 to 3 a.m. Jan. 1.

The patrol program, funded by the Illinois Department of Transportation’s Traffic Safety Grant Program, will focus on impaired drivers and unrestrained drivers and passengers, Cmdr. John Keating said.

“There is no excuse for impaired driving that will satisfy an Orland Park Law Enforcement Officer,” Keating said in a prepared statement. Those driving under the influence will be arrested. Those traveling unbuckled will be ticketed.”

In addition to enforcing zero tolerance laws involving young drivers who’ve been drinking, the police department will operate sobriety checkpoints.

Keating urged residents who plan to celebrate with alcohol to party with a non-drinking designated driver who will soberly and safely bring them home.

The stepped-up enforcement follows Mayor Dan McLaughlin’s Dec. 6 declaration that Orland Park would observe December as National Drunk- and Drugged-Driving Prevention Month.

In a related New Year’s action, the Safe Ride Home program will mark its 17th year providing free rides from 11 p.m.  Dec. 31 through 4 a.m. Jan. 1. The program serves Orland Park, Palos Heights, Mokena, Tinley Park and New Lenox residents.

Supported by a $1,500 grant from the Michael P. Gordon Memorial Foundation, the Safe Ride Home enables revelers at participating establishments to call Carey Limousine Chicago, Inc. at 1-800-752-5400 to arrange for a free ride home.