Sikeston police announce traffic safety checkpoints

SIKESTON, Mo. -- In an effort to help make Sikeston roads safer this season, officers from the Sikeston Department of Public Safety will conduct traffic safety checkpoints in the near future at undisclosed locations in the city.

"While at the checkpoint, officers will focus on compliance with Missouri Traffic Law and operator/passenger safety," Sgt. Jim McMillen, DPS public information officer, wrote in a news release.

According to McMillen, some of the major issues that officers will check are:

* Valid operators licenses,

* Seatbelt usage and proper child restraint equipment,

* DUI or impaired drivers,

* Motor vehicle insurance,

* Open containers of alcohol,

* Proper vehicle registration and

* Illegal narcotics or other contraband.

"We are doing what we can to monitor traffic flow and make our local roads safe. These checkpoints are a good way for officers to check a large number of motorists for safety," McMillen said.