COLUMBUS, Ohio - The Ohio State Highway Patrol is urging those celebrating St. Patrick's Day to not press their luck.

The agency is urging those celebrating to have a sober driver and to not get behind the wheel if they have been drinking.

Local law enforcement and the Highway Patrol will be working together during the holiday period to remove impaired drivers from roadways.

Over the last five years, 18 people have been killed in 14 crashes on St. Patrick's Day. Seven of the 14 crashes were the result of impaired driving.

Another 147 people were injured on St. Patrick's Day due to OVI-related crashes and 691 OVI arrests were made on St. Patrick's Day over the last five years.

"The popularity of the holiday and the associated consumption of alcohol make it a dangerous time to travel on Ohio's roadways," said Colonel Richard S. Fambro, Patrol superintendent. "We want to encourage all motorists to plan ahead before they start celebrating."