During the July 4^th holiday period, Michigan State Police (MSP) troopers will participate in the 30^th year of the nationwide safety initiative, Operation C.A.R.E. (Combined Accident Reduction Effort).  MSP troopers will join other state police and highway patrol agencies from around the United States and Canada in taking a zero tolerance approach to dangerous driving in an effort to ensure the safe travel of motorists on Michigan roadways.    

"The Michigan State Police is proud to be a founding member of Operation C.A.R.E., which has had a positive impact on improving traffic safety not only in Michigan, but around the nation," stated Col. Peter C. Munoz, director of the MSP.  "On this, the 30^th anniversary of Operation C.A.R.E., our goal is no less important than when Operation C.A.R.E. was first created in 1977."

The official July 4^th holiday period begins at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, July 3, and runs through midnight on Sunday, July 8, 2007.  Last year there were 13 fatal traffic crashes, which resulted in 14 deaths over the July 4^th holiday period.  Of the 14 fatalities, five individuals were not wearing their safety belt, and alcohol was a factor in three of the crashes.

Note:  During the July 4^th holiday weekend, the media is encouraged to contact their local MSP post for the latest in holiday traffic information.