GREENVILLE, S.C. - The number of people who died on South Carolina roads during the latest anti-drunken driving campaign dropped by 39 percent, compared with the same time last year when there was no special campaign.

The Public Safety Department said Wednesday that 44 people died from June 27 through July 13. That compares with 72 deaths during the same period in 2002.

The Sober or Slammer campaign included aggressive law enforcement and an advertising campaign.

"We're grateful for the drop, but we still have a long way to go," agency spokeswoman Joan Beardsley said.

"One of the simplest things that a person can do is buckle up when they get in a car," Beardsley said.

Four people died during the July Fourth holiday weekend this year, compared with 22 deaths during last year's holiday.

The first Sober or Slammer campaign aired during the Christmas season last year. The program will probably be repeated for the holidays this year, Beardsley said.

Almost 500 people were charged with drunken driving during the campaign.

Information from: The Greenville News