This holiday weekend call 911 to report impaired driving

MAAD Canada
News Release

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Members of the national organization, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD Canada), are hoping for a fatality-free holiday long weekend on Canadian roads and waterways. They are urging motorists to drive safe and sober and for all to report any incidents of suspected impaired driving to the police by calling 911.

"We don't want any unnecessary crashes this holiday, and ask everyone not to drive a car, boat or ATV after they have consumed alcohol or taken drugs," says Margaret Miller, National President of MADD Canada. "Let's keep our roads and waterways free of impaired driving fatalities. We can do this by making our travel plans in advance for our socials and parties, family celebrations, and cottage runs."

Mrs. Miller adds, "Everyone can make a difference when it comes to traffic safety by calling 911 when they see a suspected impaired driver. Report impaired driving to police and help get this menace off the road or water. If you make that call, you may just be saving a life."

Starting the Victoria Day Weekend, throughout the summer months, MADD Canada volunteers attempt to heighten impaired driving awareness in communities and in cottage country. The volunteers join police efforts at roadside and waterway checkstops to encourage sober and safe driving. They also distribute their anti-impaired driving messages and "Campaign 911" in posters, ads and public service announcements.

"We believe these messages cannot be said enough in the next few days. They could just prove to be a life-saving reminder to those relaxing and partying," says the MADD Canada President.

MADD Canada suggests five tips for Canadians to follow to ensure a safer holiday on the roads and waterways.

1. Plan ahead. Be sure you know how you are getting home. Arrange for your designated driver or for your ride.

2. Arrange for alternative transportation when drinking alcohol or taking drugs. You cannot plan for every social occasion, but you can always call a taxi or plan a lift if you partake at a gathering.

3. Avoid drinking and driving altogether when you will be driving on the roads, off-road trails or waterways. Impaired driving tragedies occur on your ATV, with your boating fun, as well as on roadways. Always be sure the driver of the vehicle is sober.

4. Talk your friends and family members from getting into a vehicle with an impaired driver. Be sure your loved ones are always safe from potentially dangerous impaired driving situations.

5. Be an example. Make a personal pledge to always drive sober. Be a good friend and always warn against impaired driving situations. Be a good host by providing alternatives to alcoholic drinks, ensuring your guests travel home safe, or offering a place to stay for those who have had too much.

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