Coquitlam RCMP will be stepping up its drinking and driving CounterAttack program this winter but holiday revellers have plenty of options to get home safe.
There are designated drivers, public transit and taxis.
And this season, as in past Christmas seasons, many Tri-City residents will turn to Operation Red Nose, a by-donation campaign that kicks off this weekend, transporting people and their vehicles when they have had too much to drink.
Proceeds from the initiative benefit KidSport, an organization that equips young people from less fortunate families with the gear they need to play organized sports.
This is the seventh year the program has been in operation and Chris Wilson, one of the organizers, said organizers expect to increase the number of trips over last season.
"Every year, it keeps growing," said Wilson. "Last year, we gave out 864 rides. This year, we will probably end up topping a thousand rides."
Volunteers are always needed for the program, especially since it expanded beyond the Tri-Cities into Burnaby and New Westminster last year.
This weekend, which is projected to be the slowest of the season, will see between 10 and 12 teams on the road. Wilson said many of the volunteers will take the opportunity to visit local drinking establishments and remind people the program is once again up and running.
Coquitlam RCMP Cpl. Jamie Chung told The Tri-City News people who are drinking should make sure they have a safe ride home.
"We are going to be putting extra officers on the road on weekends and on New Year's Eve," he said. "Drivers who are impaired should plan ahead. There are plenty of options out there."
Operation Red Nose operates in the Tri-Cities every Friday and Saturday night between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m. starting on Nov. 29 and ending on Dec. 21, with an additional day on New Year's Eve. Those who need a ride in the Tri-Cities, Burnaby or New Westminster should call 778-866-6673. For more information, go to operationnezrouge.com/en/region/tri-cities.
