Usually when trying to catch someone in the act, it’s not a good idea to give advance warning.

But advance warning is exactly what law enforcement officers in Mississippi have given this week.

The Mississippi Highway Patrol, the Adams County Sheriff’s Office and the Natchez Police Department are conducting their annual click-it or ticket program this week and next.

Drivers caught without their own seat belt on, or transporting belt-less passengers, will receive a ticket and a stern warning.

But the program isn’t aimed at boosting the budgets of any of the agencies involved from ticket money. It’s aimed at safety.

Officers will tell you that they’d rather not have to write any tickets at all over the next two weeks. These men and women work car accidents daily. They’ve seen the devastation, the blood and the lives lost. And they’ve watched the families stand by and cry.

Now, officers are using newspaper, radio and TV ads to remind drivers to be smart. They are giving advance warning, but really, they shouldn’t have to.

Seat belts are common sense. Their benefits are proven.

Besides, it’s the law.

So, save your money and your life and buckle up this week, next week and forever.

We are lucky to have public servants who care enough to set up roadblocks, stall traffic and in general protect us all.