POLICE – Holiday road checks: drivers encouraged to plan ahead

Heading somewhere for a celebration? Kamloops police are reminding drivers to think ahead about a sober ride home.

Since Dec. 1, 2024, the Kamloops RCMP detachment’s Municipal Traffic Unit, in partnership with ICBC, has been conducting enhanced sobriety checks to help keep impaired drivers off the roadways. As part of this year’s campaign, digital mobile signboards have been placed throughout the city, reminding residents of the enforcement efforts and the importance of planning ahead. The Holiday CounterAttack will continue into the New Year.

“There’s lots of time to plan ahead for holiday gatherings and New Year’s parties,” said Cpl. Wayne Chung of the Municipal Traffic Unit. “You’re already seeing road checks occurring; do the right thing by making responsible driving decisions this holiday season.”

Enforcement efforts occur at all hours of the day and on all kinds of roadways, including major routes and backroads, added Cpl. Chung. When approaching a road check, drivers are requested to have their license and insurance ready to present to an officer, in order to keep traffic moving smoothly.

The frequency of consuming alcohol and drugs is more prevalent during the festive season, which can lead to more impaired drivers, he added.

“Every CounterAttack shift we have removed impaired drivers from the roadway, which illustrates you just how many people are taking chances and making choices that can lead to extremely devastating and preventable tragedies,” said Cpl. Chung.

To improve roadway safety for everyone, drivers are encouraged to plan ahead by ensuring they have a designated driver, taxi or rideshare available, or utilize public transit or services such as Operation Red Nose.

“This holiday season, we’re reminding everyone to plan a safe ride home,” said Ingrid Brakop, local ICBC road safety and community coordinator. “By doing so, you’re protecting everyone on our roads. Let’s celebrate responsibly and keep our communities safe.”

Contact the Kamloops RCMP Detachment at 250-828-3000 or 911 to report impaired driving.