MANATEE -- Local law enforcement agencies will increase patrols this holiday weekend in an effort to combat drunk drivers on the roadways and on the water.

The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office says it will conduct a DUI saturation patrol Friday from 5:30 p.m. to 3 a.m. in areas with a history of high DUI-related incidents.

The purpose of the saturation is to bring awareness to the DUI problem in Manatee and reduce the number of DUIs, particularly the ones involving serious crashes, a media release said.

“Saturation patrols have worked for us in the past,” sheriff’s spokesman Dave Bristow said. “It’s the beginning of a busy holiday weekend, and people will drink and drive.”

So far this year, the sheriff’s office traffic unit has made more than 175 DUI arrests, according to a media release.

Other law enforcement agencies, such as the Palmetto Police Department, are planning on increased visibility this weekend, too.

Studies show the average DUI driver commits this violation 80 times per year, averaging out to once every four to five days, the sheriff’s office reports.

Furthermore, national averages show an alcohol-related fatality occurs every 30 minutes.

Since Memorial Day attracts people to the beach, Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach police departments are planning on increased enforcement on both land and water this weekend.

“Everybody seems to bring their guard down on holiday weekends. We want them to be safe and enjoy,” said Bradenton Beach Chief Sam Speciale, who reminds residents to be mindful of the rules, such as not drinking on the beach, “no open fires, no barbecues, no alcohol, and basically we tell everybody to keep any valuables locked up, don’t bring them to the beach.”

Holmes Beach Chief Jay Romine warns that DUI rules apply to boaters, too.

Manatee County Marine Rescue Division Chief Jay Moyles echoes that warning.

“Have a designated driver. Alcohol and boat trips don’t mix,” Moyles said. “You have your family and friends with you and they’re depending on you to get them back to shore safely.”

He also suggests people to take photos of their children before heading to the beach so a proper description can be given to rescue workers if they get lost, and for boaters to take safety precautions before heading out.

“Don’t let common sense take a back seat when the bathing suit goes on,” Moyles said.