Christmas is coming which means RCMP check stops are happening in Thompson Okanagan

It’s an especially bad time of year to drive impaired because the RCMP are increasing enforcement for the rest of December and check stops will be common throughout Kamloops and the Okanagan.

Police across Canada will begin their month-long “Counter-Attack” campaign today, Dec. 3, which is National Impaired Driving Enforcement Day, according to a press release from the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP.

“It’s the time of year where people are getting together at parties and social gatherings to celebrate the holiday season,” Const. Chris Terleski said in the release.

“Enjoy yourself and celebrate, but please, do it safely. If you are going to consume anything; alcohol, cannabis, or otherwise, that may impair your ability to drive, stay home or plan in advance for a safe ride.”

You can get in a lot of trouble for driving impaired. Check out the list of penalties here.

“Whether it’s through check-stops, mandatory alcohol screening, standardized field sobriety tests, or using drug recognition experts, we’re going to use all the tools available to remove impaired drivers from our roadways,” Terleski said.

“Alcohol and drug related collisions are entirely preventable and there is zero tolerance for those who choose to take the risk and drive under the influence.”

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