Memorial Day weekend: the official start of the summer travel season &045; and the unofficial start of the state’s deadliest driving period.

We urge motorists as they head out to apply and maintain safe driving behaviors on the road.

According to statistics from the Minnesota State Patrol, 158 people have died in crashes in 2004.

Last Memorial Day weekend, six people died and 264 were injured in Minnesota traffic crashes.

It’s important that motorists not let their guard down.

That means pay attention and drive at safe speeds as more vehicles take to the roads. Include enough travel time to avoid traffic congestion and the urge to speed.

And don’t forget that everyone in the vehicle should be properly belted in.

In addition to the increased traffic on the roads, motorists will also see increased state troopers, officers and deputies on duty, targeting seat belt use.

A seat belt enforcement campaign is running through June 6.

Drive safely this weekend and plan to arrive at your destination alive &045; and return home the same way.