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(CHARLOTTE HELSTON / iNFOnews.ca)
December 01, 2016 - 4:30 PM
KAMLOOPS - The RCMP is reminding all festive citizens to plan ahead before indulging in drinks this holiday season.
Kamloops police officers are out and enforcing the CounterAttack program, Cpl. Jodi Shelkie says in a media release.
Over the next month, extra officers will be on the road looking for impaired drivers.
The RCMP is looking for signs of impairment, which could be from drugs or alcohol. As part of the CounterAttack initiative, officers trained as Drug Recognition Experts will also be on patrol.
Officers can issue fines and impose tough penalties for impaired drivers.
"The vehicle can be immediately taken off the road and impounded for three to 30 days," Shelkie says in the release. "Costs related to these offences can add up to $600 to $4,000, even it if it’s the first time a driver is caught. A person who is found to be impaired while driving is subject to criminal charges."
Operation Red Nose, Zero Tolerance, carpooling, designated drivers, taxis, and the city bus are all smart ways to get home safely.
"The consequences of impaired driving are massive. You’re risking your life and the lives of others. You can be charged criminally and the ripple effect on you, your family and friends can be huge," Shelkie says.
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