The Fourth of July is a few days away and with it, plans are being finalized for Independence Day celebrations. While the summer holiday is one during which Americans across the nation celebrate freedom and the United States’ independence, it is important to ensure all activities this Fourth of July are safe and responsible.

The North Carolina Governor’s Highway Safety Program and the N.C. Department of Transportation will hold its annual Booze It & Lose It — Operation Firecracker campaign from June 24-July 5, which includes the Fourth of July holiday.

State and local law enforcement will be aggressively seeking out drunk drivers to remove them from N.C. roadways, ensuring safe travels and celebrations for others.

The Booze It & Lose It education and enforcement campaign is now in its 22^nd year and has created awareness of the dangers of drinking and driving, as well as the penalties associated with it. Although the campaign has been successful, 9,411 people have lost their lives in alcohol-related crashes in the state since the program’s inception.

The number of fatalities involving drunk drivers increased by 34 from 2014 to 2015. So far in 2016, there have been 135 fatalities related to drunk driving — 51 fewer deaths than this time last year.

During last year’s campaign, 1,785 drunk drivers were arrested, but there were still 111 crashes involving drunk drivers, which resulted in five fatalities.

The statistics are alarming, mainly because the decisions that ultimately lead to these deaths are avoidable. It is as simple as being responsible. When celebrating Fourth of July, or any other occasion, it is important to think ahead and keep a few options in mind.

Those celebrating should drink in moderation. However, in the event one gets a little carried away in the festivities, a designated driver should be determined beforehand. If not, call a cab to ensure safe travels for oneself and for others using the roadways. Another option is to simply get a hotel room for the night rather than getting behind the wheel after a night of drinking.

Everyone has a responsibility to himself and fellow motorists to practice safe driving habits. Be sure to think ahead and plan accordingly. One mistake could mean the difference between life and death, so don’t take drunk driving lightly.