Local RCMP have increased targeted counter attack enforcements and officers are hitting roads, looking for drivers impaired by both alcohol and drugs. (RCMP)
Special to the Times
Osoyoos Times
If you’re attending holiday parties this Christmas season, RCMP in the area want to remind you to never drive while impaired.
Starting this month, the RCMP in Penticton and the South Okanagan Traffic Services have ramped up targeted counter attack enforcement, and officers will be looking for drivers impaired by both alcohol and drugs.
Specially trained drug recognition experts will be ready to assess drivers who may be impaired by drugs including cannabis, Cst. James Grandy of the Penticton RCMP said.
“There are so many easy alternatives to getting around safely this season; there’s no reason to risk driving while impaired,” he said. “Before going out this holiday season, plan for a safe ride home.”
On Dec. 1, the Penticton RCMP and South Okanagan Traffic Services took 12 impaired drivers off the road.
On average, 68 people die each year in crashes involving impairment in B.C., Grandy said. Half of those crashes occur on weekends between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m.
