Operation Red Nose volunteers will be out in full force again this weekend, offering safe rides home to party-goers.
Twenty-six volunteer teams will be out on the road tonight while another 26 teams will be out Saturday night.
"We've never had this many teams out on the road this early in the season before, but we want to ensure we're prepared to deal with the high demand for rides that we expect," said Andrea Johnson, Operation Red Nose spokesperson.
"This is also the most popular weekend for company Christmas parties so we know we'll be busy. Those who feel they are impaired or unfit to drive can call 250-962-RIDE between 9 p.m. - 3 a.m. both nights."
So far after four nights of service, Operation Red Nose has provided 344 safe rides home during the free, designated driving service during the holiday season organized by the Nechako Rotary Club in partnership with the RCMP and ICBC.
That total, a new record for Prince George, is third overall out of the 23 Operation Red Nose groups in B.C. behind only Kamloops (350) and Langley/Surrey (392).
"In 2010 on the same weekend, our best year to date, we provided 101 rides on the Friday night and 183 rides on the Saturday night so we know we will once again be busy," said Johnson.
So far, 273 volunteers have stepped up this year to keep Prince George roads safe. The goal for 2012 is to have 300 volunteers.
"We'd still like volunteers for Dec. 21 and 22 and especially New Year's Eve. We're encouraging those who've already helped us out this year to return and ring in the new year with us," said Johnson.
Volunteers can go to www.ornpg.ca and fill out their application form which also includes a Criminal Record Check. Volunteers must be 19 years old and have a valid driver's license. They must submit their application form to the Community Policing office on 5th and Brunswick before Dec. 21 to allow enough time for processing.
