Nashville, Tennessee --- The Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) will mark the 2004 Memorial Day holiday with aggressive enforcement. Troopers statewide will be on the lookout for speeding motorists, unrestrained occupants and any impaired drivers.

"Public safety is the Tennessee Highway Patrol's number one priority," said Department of Safety Fred Phillips. "We're serious about saving lives and are cracking down on motorists who create dangerous driving conditions for themselves and others this holiday weekend."

Beginning Friday, May 28 at 6 p.m. and continuing until midnight Monday, May 31 all available Troopers will hit the roads in an effort to keep motorists safe this Memorial Day weekend. Last year there were a total of 13 fatalities on the roadways during the holiday period.

"Although the Tennessee Highway Patrol is increasing its presence and enforcement efforts this Memorial Day weekend, it's imperative that drivers and passengers obey the rules of the road," said THP Colonel Lynn Pitts. "It's a matter of safety - yours and your families - buckle up, don't speed and never drink and drive."

This year's Memorial Holiday weekend coincides with "Buckle Up America! Week," a nationwide effort aimed at seat belt and child safety enforcement. THP will join that effort this weekend with intensified enforcement of safety belt and child passenger safety laws.

The Tennessee Department of Safety's mission is (www.tennessee.gov/safety) to ensure the safety and general welfare of the public. The department encompasses the Tennessee Highway Patrol, Office of Homeland Security and Driver License Services. General areas of responsibility include law enforcement, safety education, motorist services and terrorism prevention.