"Next week kicks-off the summer travel season in Michigan," stated Col. Peter C. Munoz, director of the MSP.  "Start your travels with safety in mind by buckling your seat belt and driving responsibly."

Operation C.A.R.E. began in 1977 as a collaborative effort between the Michigan State Police and Indiana State Police, and is one of the nation's longest-running traffic safety initiatives.  Today, it includes state and highway patrol agencies from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Ontario Provincial Police, the Quebec Police Force and the Virgin Islands.  

During this same period, troopers will also take part in the statewide Buckle Up or Pay Up: Click It or Ticket safety belt mobilization that runs through June 1. 

Note:  During the Memorial Day holiday weekend, the media is encouraged to contact their local MSP post for the latest in holiday traffic information.