Denver – Despite the cold, the Heat is On across the state as the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) and more than 40 law enforcement agencies crack down on drunk drivers as we ring in the New Year. The special DUI enforcement period begins at 6 p.m. on New Year's Eve, Dec. 31, and continues through 3 a.m. on Jan. 5th.

"The New Year is a time to celebrate our accomplishments and look forward to the future. Don't start 2009 with a DUI or even worse - robbing yourself or someone else of a future with their loved ones," said Col. Mark Trostel, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. "If you are celebrating with alcohol, plan before you party by designating a sober driver, arranging a taxi or taking public transportation. It's that simple."

To encourage responsible alcohol consumption decisions over New Year's Eve, more than 40 Front Range bars, restaurants and hotels have partnered with CDOT's "Plan Ahead" campaign to sponsor and hand out $5 taxi vouchers to patrons. Freedom Cabs, Metro Taxi and Yellow Cab (Denver, Colorado Springs and Boulder) will accept the universal "Plan Ahead" vouchers through Jan. 5. Another campaign partner, MillerCoors, has sponsored an additional 2,000 $5 Yellow Cab vouchers in Denver as a part of its "You Hold the Key. Never Drive Drunk" campaign. Also, the Regional Transportation District (RTD) in the Denver metro area is once again providing free bus and light rail service on New Year's Eve.

For a list of businesses offering cab vouchers, information on overnight parking, and free RTD service on New Year's Eve, visit www.PlanAheadColorado.com.