Kamloops RCMP and BC Highway Patrol at a Light up the Province road checkpoint earlier in 2025. (Image Credit: Curtis Goodrum / CFJC Today)

By Dylana Kneeshaw

ICBC DRIVING SAFETY

Safe, sober driving practices encouraged amid winter festivities

Dec 23, 2025 | 4:11 PM

KAMLOOPS — While the valley areas of the Interior may look like spring, the high elevation highways have been hammered by snow and rain, and several routes were shut down overnight Monday (Dec. 22).

Some highways have reopened as of Tuesday afternoon (Dec. 23), and ICBC’s Roadside Safety Coordinator, Ingrid Brakop, has a reminder about taking it slow – and sober – on winter roads.

Before heading out for a holiday road trip, people are encouraged to top up their gas, check road reports, and pack a roadside safety kit.

“I would highly recommend before you head out on to our wintery BC highways, to check Drive BC because you never know what the conditions are going to be like on a mountain pass,” explains Brakop, “So you may have this beautiful sunny day down here in Kamloops, and the Coquihalla will be a competely different experience.”

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Around this time of year, Brakop says they do see an uptick in the amount of impaired driving collisions. And those account for 21 per cent of fatal car accidents in B.C. every year.

For anyone planning to partake in a festive, alcoholic beverage over the winter holidays, ICBC says there are plenty of ways to get home without getting behind the wheel while intoxicated.

“There’s no excuse for impaired driving. It’s a decision that people make. Make a good decision behind the wheel,” reiterates Brakop, “Call Operation Red Nose in Kamloops, they’re happy to take you and your vehicle home. Get a designated driver, and keep your precious cargo safe and also respect the people that live in your community who are also out and about on the roadways.”

Operation Red Nose is available this Friday and Saturday night – along with New Year’s Eve. The number to call is 250-372-5110.