Photo Credit: chatnewstoday file

By Regan Tate

RCMP encouraging safety this holiday season

Dec 2, 2023 | 8:00 AM

Medicine Hat, AB–The holiday season has officially arrived and many will spend this time celebrating with family and friends.

The RCMP say the holidays can also be a time of indulgence and are encouraging Albertans to keep safety top of mind.

On Saturday, Dec. 2, RCMP will be out conducting traffic enforcement initiatives and check stops in support of National Impaired Driving Enforcement Day.

The Alberta RCMP asks motorists to remember the following:

• Driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs is never okay. Impaired driving is both criminal and dangerous.
• Mandatory Alcohol Screening is used by Alberta RCMP to deter and detect impaired drivers. If you are pulled over or at a check stop, you can expect to provide a breath sample.
• Individuals with a Graduated Driver’s Licence must abide by the zero-tolerance law (Government of Alberta, 2023).
• Impaired driving is always preventable and can always be avoided. Call a taxi or rideshare service, use a designated driver, or stay the night.
• If you are attending a party and have consumed drugs or alcohol, do not drive. Find a safe ride home, or a safe place to spend the night.
• Party hosts aren’t off the hook. If you’re guest have been drinking or using drugs, make sure they have a safe place to stay, or a sober ride home.
• Call 911 immediately if you witness or suspect impaired driving.

WHAT'S ON

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IN THE COMMUNITY

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HOLIDAYS

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“This December, and always, remember to enjoy the holidays responsibly. If you are attending a party, make sure you have a sober ride home, or a safe place to spend the night,” said Sgt. Darrin Turnbull.

Last year, Alberta RCMP responded to 233 fatal collisions. About 25% of those involved alcohol or drugs. They also removed 7.573 impaired drivers from Alberta roadways, that’s the equivalent of more than 20 per day.