The Albert Lea Police Department will increase its drunken driving patrols on Halloween in an effort to keep the city’s roads safe.

Halloween party weekends in Minnesota during the last five years have accounted for seven deaths and 27 life-altering injuries, according to a news release.

“Impaired driving typically rears its ugly head during the Halloween party period, which creates a dangerous environment on our roads,” said Albert Lea police Lt. Jeff Strom. “Before you put on your costume and head out for the night, make sure you have a plan in place for a sober way home to avoid the dangers and consequences of driving drunk.”

In the last three years in Freeborn County, though not on Halloween weekend, four people were killed in crashes caused by drunken drivers, the release stated.

The police emphasized the importance of pedestrian safety.