| Text Release Date and Time: 2010-08-03 13
The Medicine Hat Police Service Selected Traffic Enforcement Program for the
month of August is impaired driving. Impaired Driving is an issue that
is dealt with on a year round basis by the Medicine Hat Police Service.
Statistically, alcohol related deaths and injuries peak in August. Impaired
driving is the single leading criminal cause of death in Canada. The Medicine
Hat Police Service in conjunction with the local chapter of Mothers Against
Drunk Driving will have numerous Checkstops set up at various locations
throughout the City.
Help make our roadways safer (Courtesy Calgary Police Service)
Every death and injury caused by impaired driving is preventable.
Steps you can take to protect yourself and others from this tragedy include:
- Never drive after consuming ANY alcohol. Although you may not feel impaired, just one drink reduces your reactions and ability to drive safely.
- Appoint a designated driver. Take turns and plan your outings in advance to
ensure everyone gets home safely.
- Preventing impaired driving is a shared responsibility.
- Stop anyone from driving if you do not have complete confidence in their
ability to drive.
Signs of an impaired driver may include but are not limited to:
- Driving unreasonably fast, slow or both.
- Tailgating or changing lanes at unreasonable speeds.
- Dangerous passing.
- Leaving intersections too quickly or too slowly.
What to do if you spot an impaired driver:
- Maintain a safe distance from the impaired driver's vehicle
- Call police. You may be saving someone's life.
We all have a responsibility when it comes to preventing drinking and driving. If you suspect someone of driving under the influence, please call 9-1-1.
The message being displayed on the speed trailer between August 1st to
15th,
2010 will be "Over The Limit, Under Arrest - DON'T DRINK AND DRIVE"
For more information contact:
Sgt. Gerald Sadlemyer
Traffic Response Unit
Medicine Hat Police Service
Ph: 403-529-8471 |
Office of the Chief
