Government and law enforcement agencies are coming together to promote road safety during Operation Christmas.
The annual campaign, aimed at reducing impaired driving and encouraging motorists to practice safe winter driving, will be launched Thursday, Nov. 26, in Bible Hill and Truro.
“We want everyone to have a happy and safe holiday season without any tragedies on our highways,” said Truro Police Chief Dave MacNeil. “We all have a role to play when dealing with drunk drivers. I urge any member of the public who sees an impaired driver to dial 9-1-1.”
Impaired driving is one of the leading causes of preventable death and serious injuries on Nova Scotia’s roads.
Checkpoints targeting impaired drivers will be set up in the Bible Hill and Truro area to highlight the start of the campaign. More checkpoints will be in place across the province throughout the holiday season.
Truro Police Service is partnering with RCMP Northeast Nova Traffic Services to host the campaign. Mothers Against Drunk Driving Canada (MADD) will also participate.
“Accidents caused by drunk driving are tragic but they are avoidable. People need to be reminded to plan ahead, whether it is arranging for a way home or choosing a safe place to stay,” said Fred Sanford, director of policing services, on behalf of Justice Minister Diana Whalen. “We all have a responsibility to ensure that a person does not get behind the wheel when under the influence of alcohol.”
The Criminal Code makes it illegal to drive with a blood-alcohol level above 0.08. Nova Scotia imposes administrative penalties, including a minimum seven-day licence suspension, for motorists who are driving with a blood-alcohol content of 0.05 to 0.08.
“We appreciate the opportunity to participate with our partners in such an important prevention initiative,” said Susan MacAskill, MADD Atlantic regional manager. “This holiday season, MADD Canada is very focused on reminding the public to call 911 if they see someone driving who may be impaired by drugs or alcohol. By working together we can save lives.”
Nova Scotia drivers are also reminded to prepare for winter conditions by taking steps such as installing snow tires, checking windshield wiper blades and stocking vehicles with emergency roadside kits.
An information sheet with winter safe driving tips is on the Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal website at novascotia.ca/tran/winter/