KAMLOOPS — Tis the season to drink and be merry.
With many people likely to get out and enjoy an extra glass of merlot or beer this holiday season, Kamloops RCMP is reminding drivers that they too will be out in full force.
“Our CounterAttack started last weekend and we’re going to have extra police officers out right until the end of December and even into January,” said Cpl. Jodi Shelkie with the Kamloops RCMP.
Every year 66 alcohol-related fatalities occur on BC roads, more than a third of those in the Interior.
“Obviously we want to bring that number down to zero,” said Ingrid Brokop with Kamloops ICBC. “Campaigns like CounterAttack are very effective in terms of getting the information out to the motoring public about our intolerance for impaired driving.”
According to MADD Canada, drunk driving is highest among 26 to 29-year-olds.
While the criminal code legal limit is .08, drivers can still be ticketed for blowing .05 or lower.
“There’s an immediate consequence in our road-side suspensions,” said Shelkie. “People can lose their cars for three to 90 days. They’re paying the fees for storage and towing, fees can be up to $6,000 so there’s heavy consequences.”
According to the government, there’s been an 80% decrease in alcohol-related car accidents since the CounterAttack program began in 1976.
While cocktail consumption generally increases during the holiday season, staff at Kamloops Fox’n Hounds Pub say today’s drinking and driving laws are keeping people in line.
“People have adapted and have to be more responsible if they want to go out, and I really think they are,” said Sue Mullen, Manager at Fox’n Hounds Pub.
Mullen says the cities numerous driving programs provide a great safety net for those who have had a little too much fun.
“There’s more alternatives for people to get home so people can go out. Operation Red Nose, Keys Please, there’s tons of ways for people to go out and still get home.”
While the number of impaired drivers is going down, Transportation Minister Todd Stone says the province is still committed to seeing zero impaired drivers on BC roads.
“We’re doubling down in our efforts right across the board,” said Stone. “More advertising on traditional media, we’re also looking at creative ways to break through with social media, in public places, and so forth”
The main message across the board?
“Any alcohol impairs your judgement,” said Shelkie. “If you’re drinking anything, have a safe ride home”
