A holiday tradition in Manitoba kicked off Friday.
The festive checkstop program hit the road for 2015 on Dec. 4.
Winnipeg police said drivers can expect to see an increased number of officers enforcing impaired driving laws on city roadways through the month of December, including New Year’s Eve.
Manitoba RCMP will also take part in the annual campaign on provincial roads.
According to RCMP, impaired drivers were involved in 28 fatal collisions last year, killing 29 people.
“Some of your loved ones, friends and fellow neighbours are not getting home to their families because of impaired drivers, and it is our priority to change those irresponsible behaviours,” said Sgt. Bert Paquet of the Manitoba RCMP in a news release Friday.
Additionally, Manitoba RCMP also launched a social media campaign Friday called Impaired Reality. It is designed to show the harsh reality and consequences of impaired driving.
Police said impaired driving is the No. 1 criminal cause of death in Canada, yet is 100 per cent preventable.
The names of drivers charged with impaired driving related offences will be made public.
Last year, Winnipeg's checkstop campaign resulted in:
- 12 Failed alcohol screening device tests
- 33 24-hour drivers licence suspensions
- 45 Driving impaired related charges
Officers suggest drivers make a plan for transport before heading out this holiday season such as a cab ride, Operation Red Nose or a designated sober driver.
