The month of December is upon us, which means the season of holiday gatherings and celebrations has begun. Red Deer RCMP will conduct several check stops and traffic initiatives throughout the month and want to remind drivers of important safety tips.
For the duration of December, Red Deer RCMP Traffic Unit will be working in partnership with City of Red Deer Community Peace Officers (CPO’s) to keep the roads safe this holiday season, through joint check-stops at various locations throughout the city. RCMP will be conducting Mandatory Alcohol Screening (MAS), which became law in Alberta in Dec. 2018. MAS means police officers can demand a breath sample from any driver that has been lawfully stopped, even if alcohol impairment is not suspected. If this screening determines the driver is impaired by drugs, alcohol, or a combination of both, criminal charges can be laid and the drivers licence suspended. It is also a criminal offence if drivers refuse to take any of the MAS tests.
These initiatives aim to reduce impaired driving by encouraging motorists to find alternative rides or to plan ahead to have a designated sober driver, as well as removing impaired drivers from the roads. Red Deer RCMP asks the public to follow these important safety reminders:
- If you are pulled over or at a check stop, you can expect to provide a breath sample as part of Mandatory Alcohol Screening
- Impaired driving is always preventable - call a taxi or rideshare service, use a designated driver or stay the night.
- Party hosts are still accountable. If your guests have been drinking or using drugs, ensure they have a safe place to stay or a sober ride home.
- Individuals with a Graduated Driver’s Licence must abide by the zero-tolerance law.
- Call 911 immediately if you witness or suspect impaired driving.
Driving while impaired due to drugs or alcohol is never okay. Impaired driving is criminal and dangerous. Red Deer RCMP wants everyone to enjoy the holiday season safely.
