RCMP urges safe driving this holiday season

By Claresholm RCMP
As Albertans prepare for holiday festivities, the RCMP is reminding everyone to make responsible choices and to not drive impaired. Impaired driving is entirely preventable, and with a little planning, you can ensure everyone arrives home safely this season.
The Claresholm RCMP offers the following safety tips to help you stay safe and avoid impaired driving while enjoying the holiday season:
• If you know that you’ll be drinking alcohol or using substances, plan your transportation in advance. Arrange for a taxi, rideshare, or public transportation to take you to and from your destination.
• If you’re attending an event with friends or family, establish a designated driver who will remain sober and responsible for getting everyone home safely.
• If you’re celebrating at a friend’s house, consider asking if you can stay overnight rather than risk driving home impaired.
• If you’re hosting a holiday gathering, be mindful of your guests’ alcohol consumption and offer non-alcoholic beverages for those who are driving.
• If you notice that a friend or family member has had too much to drink, don’t let them drive. Instead, offer to help them find alternative transportation.
• If you take on the role of designated driver, be sure to stay alcohol-free for the entire event, and take pride in knowing that you’re helping friends and family get home safely.
• It’s important to note that impaired driving is not limited to alcohol consumption. Driving under the influence of cannabis or prescription drugs can also impair your ability to operate a vehicle safely.
For more safe driving tips, follow us on Facebook @RCMPinAlberta and on X @RCMPAlberta