It seems everybody is in a hurry to get somewhere on the Fourth of July weekend. High traffic volume traveling at faster speeds and a spike in impaired driving historically make the Fourth of July weekend one of the deadliest travel periods of the year.

We urge motorists traveling out of town this weekend to make driving decisions that will help them arrive at their destinations and back home again safely.

During the Fourth of July travel periods from 2000 to 2004 in Minnesota, 35 people died and more than 1,600 were injured in traffic crashes &045; nine died in 2004 alone. To date in 2005, 231 people have died in crashes compared to 195 deaths at this time last year &045; an 18 percent increase.

There are so many great things to do this weekend right here in our own community &045; the parade, waterski show and fireworks, just to name a few &045; that we question why anyone would want to go anywhere else this weekend.

But people do have friends and family elsewhere, so if you must leave, please set aside enough time to get to your destination and avoid traffic and congestion so you don’t feel the need to speed. Also, buckle up, drive sober and take periodic breaks so you remain alert. Tired drivers can be just as deadly as impaired drivers.

Taking a few precautions and staying alert can help assure you will be around to celebrate many more Independence Days to come.