Spencer, IA (KICD)– The unofficial end of summer is nearing with Labor Day just a few short days away and as with any holiday weekend, area law enforcement will have an increased presence on the roads.

State Patrol Trooper Kevin Krull says the main point to drive home is that the number of fatalities in Iowa continues to sit above average police would like to keep numbers of the extended weekend below last year’s statistics.

The State Patrol will continue to enforce all traffic violations, but project times may shift a bit to focus more on getting impaired drivers off the road.

The latest update shows there have been 249 traffic fatalities in Iowa so far this year which is 34 more than last year and seven above the five year average.