Prince George, B.C. – This July long weekend, RCMP  and ICBC are  reminding  people  that while it’s  O.K. to  celebrate Canada’s 150th birthday,  make sure you have a plan to get home safely.

Every year in B.C.,  180 people are injured, and  one person dies in 640 crashes on Canada Day.  42 of those crashes happen  in  the North Central region,  leaving six people  hurt.

North District Traffic Services Sergeant Al Steinhauser  says this being a special  Canada Day,  there will be  plenty of celebrating “With it being Canada 150, we know that people will  partake  a little more than  normal.  We just ask that  you be reasonable.   Enjoy yourself,  but still respect the laws  and others who are out and about.”

There will be plenty of police presence this weekend to ensure those who are on the roadways  are fit to drive  says Sgt. Steinhauser “The Counter-Attack program  is ongoing throughout the year, but we will be focusing in and around the recreational areas where we have a high tendency  to locate individuals who have been  partaking  ( in drinking alcohol) throughout the day and then want to drive home”

He says alcohol and lots of sunshine can  have  an impact “It can creep up on you pretty  fast,  so plan your  weekend,  stay hydrated enjoy yourself, but be safe because you know,  somebody definitely loves  you and wants you to make it home.”

Each year in B.C., 66 people die in crashes involving impaired driving and nearly half  of those deaths happen during summer months.