RCMP are now out in force keeping an eye out for drunk drivers as the holiday season kicks into full gear.
Great strides have been made in lowering the number of impaired driving incidents on northern B.C. roads and highways, North District RCMP traffic services Staff Sergeant Pat McTiernan said, but that doesn't mean police will let up.
"We will continue our efforts to further decrease those preventable incidents through increased enforcement and police presence on our northern roadways," McTiernan said. "Police will conduct proactive enforcement road checks, which will include rolling road checks to enhance the element of surprise, while increasing the perception of possible apprehension. "
Driving after using drugs, even prescription drugs, is just as dangerous as drinking and driving.
"Drug recognition experts will be used in our enforcement campaigns throughout the province and if you're under the influence of a drug, you can be charged with drug-impaired driving," McTiernan said.
Other options for getting home include taxi, public transit, cabs, Keys Please, a designated driver and Operation Red Nose.
"With so many options, there really is no excuse," McTiernan said.
After starting up last weekend, when they provided a record-setting 131 rides, Operation Red Nose volunteers were on the road again last night and will be out again tonight with as many as 23 teams .
"Because of the increased demand we expect, we will have more teams out this weekend," said ORN spokeswoman Andrea Johnson.
Anyone who does not feel fit to drive can call 250-962-RIDE (7433) from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. and volunteers will take them and their vehicle home.
