St. Lawrence County residents should expect sobriety checkpoints and a strong police presence as law enforcement agencies plan to crack down on drunken driving over the “Super Bowl” weekend.

The statewide “STOP-DWI and Texting-While-Driving Crackdown” efforts will begin Jan. 31 and will run through Feb. 3.

According to a release from Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo’s office, state police will be collaborating with County Sheriff and municipal law enforcement agencies across the state to reduce the number of alcohol related and distracted driving injuries and deaths.

Superintendent Joseph A. D’Amico said checkpoints will be set up throughout the state.

“During this campaign period drivers can expect to see sobriety checkpoints, dedicated DWI enforcement patrols, underage drinking and sales to minors details across New York State. Our Troopers will also be working to keep motorists and pedestrians safe on New York’s roadways by identifying drivers who are illegally using hand held devices while driving. It is important to partner with our local law enforcement partners to save lives and keep drunk drivers off of our roads,” he said.

Whether attending the game, watching at a bar or hosting a party, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, TEAM Coalition, the NFL and the New York State Police remind everyone that Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk.

The NHTSA offers these additional safety tips:

If you’re attending a Super Bowl party or watching the game at a sports bar or restaurant:

• Designate your sober driver, or plan another way to get home safely before the party begins.

• If you don’t have a designated driver, then ask a sober friend for a ride home; call a cab, friend, or family member to come and get you; or just stay for the night. 

• Use your community’s sober ride program. 

• Never let friends drive if they have had too much to drink.

If you’re hosting a Super Bowl party:

• Make sure all your guests designate a sober driver in advance, or arrange for alternate transportation to ensure they get home safely.

• Serve food and include non-alcoholic beverages at the party.

• Stop serving alcohol at the end of the third quarter of the game and begin serving coffee and dessert.

• Keep the numbers for local cab companies handy, and take the keys away from anyone who has had too much to drink. Seat belts are the best defense against a drunk driver in a crash.