The Albert Lea Police Department and Freeborn County Sheriff’s Office began a stepped-up drunken driving enforcement this weekend that will continue through Labor Day.

The enforcement is part of a statewide DWI campaign with more than 300 agencies. Funding is provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

According to a news release, DWI arrests have declined 40 percent in the last 10 years, as an increasing number of motorists are making smarter choices behind the wheel.

In 2006, about 42,000 people were arrested for drunken driving statewide, compared to about 25,000 in 2015, the release stated.

In the last five years, August was the worst month for DWI offenders, averaging 2,509 arrests. On average, drunken driving will contribute to at least one fatality and two life-changing injuries during the Labor Day holiday period.