Partnering with law enforcement agencies across the state and the Seatbelts Are For Everyone program, deputies will be issuing citations for seat belt violations.

Sheriff Andy Dedeke reminded drivers to buckle up, drive the speed limit and avoid distracted driving, including cellphone usage and texting while driving.

As spring break, prom season and high school graduations approach, it is more important than ever to focus on safe operation of vehicles, Dedeke said.

In 2013 alone, 31 Kansas teens lost their lives in car accidents and nearly 250 were seriously injured as a result of accidents. In addition, 74 percent of these teens were not properly restrained.

“We approach this traffic enforcement initiative as a teachable moment,” Dedeke said. “Even one person getting hurt is too much of a price to pay if steps can be taken to avoid the injury.”