Operation S.A.N.T.A. was launched today by state police in an attempt to save lives and prevent injuries as part of their 2012 holiday enforcement.

According to a press release, Operation S.A.N.T.A. (Stop Another Needless Tragic Accident) is the major holiday accident and injury prevention message from the state police.

Roving DUI patrols are scheduled beginning this Friday through the New Year along Routes 2, 2A, 32, 97, 138, 163, 201 and Interstates 95 and 395 in Montville, Preston, Ledyard and North Stonington, Sprague, Lisbon, Griswold, Voluntown, East Lyme, Waterford, New London and Groton.

During this time, police will attempt to rid the roads and highways of drivers who are driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, speed, and fail to wear seatbelts.

All state police departments across Connecticut and the country will participate in the Combined Accident Reduction Effort (C.A.R.E.) which focuses on driver behavior that most frequently causes accidents, the press release states.

Police are asking residents that if they choose to drink alcohol at festive events to make plans in advance for a non-drinking driver to bring them home. They are also imploring residents to call 911 for any suspected drunken drivers.