MICHIGAN -- With St. Patrick's Day and the NCAA basketball tournament both right around the corner, law enforcement in Michigan is warning drivers to stay sober.

Police will be doing 13,200 hours of extra patrols starting today and going through April 8.

Over 150 agencies in 26 counties, including Genesee and Saginaw, are all participating.

The Michigan Office of Highway Safety (OHSP) is coordinating the effort which is paid for with Federal money.

Almost 2,500 people were arrested for drunk driving during this same period last year.

"It doesn't matter if you're out rooting for your favorite team at the local sports bar or celebrating the luck of the Irish at the corner pub, if alcohol is part of the festivities make sure you designate a sober driver to get you home safely, " director of OHSP, Michael Prince, said.

Driving with a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of .08 or higher is illegal in Michigan. There are extra penalties if the BAC is .17 or higher.