Police are stepping up enforcement of seat-belt use over a 10-day period.

The crackdown began Friday and continues through Sunday, October 19th.

From 2005 through 2007, more than half of the 1,200 vehicle occupants killed in Minnesota were not wearing seat belts -- and nearly 1,300 unbelted motorists were seriously hurt in crashes.

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety is coordinating the effort.

It includes about 400 law enforcement agencies.

Seat belt citations are $25 but can cost up to $115 with administrative fees.

The enforcement effort will also emphasize special night-time seat belt patrols.