photo courtesy ICBC

Prince George, BC – According to ICBC, an average of 14 people are killed in impaired-related crashes in North Central BC every year during the summer months.  On Canada day alone, an average of seven people are injured in 37 crashes around the region annually.

The BC government, RCMP and ICBC have launched this summer's CounterAttack campaign with funding for enhanced police enforcement and an education component that promotes the use of designated drivers at venues where alcohol is served.

Whether you're golfing, boating, or going to a BBQ with friends, the message is to plan ahead for a safe ride home.  "The tough approach we introduced in 2010 has helped curtail drinking and driving and cut the alcohol-related death toll on our roads by more than half, says Attorney-General Suzanne Anton.  "However, we know some people still don't take the issue seriously, that's why we're ensuring an additional $1-million is available to police for enhanced enforcement overtime, such as CounterAttack."

Anton says, "Targeted enforcement remains critical to intercepting those who continue to put other road users in danger."

Inspector Ted Emanuels with the RCMP's E Division Traffic services says police across BC will be out in full force looking for impaired drivers at roadchecks.  "We see the devastating results of impaired driving all too often, which is why we're committed to keeping impaired drivers off our roads."