The Battlefords RCMP will conduct a variety of impaired driving enforcement actions during Nation Impaired Driving Week. Over the week of May 12-20, the practices will line up with a national campaign involving police forces across the country.
An educational component will also happen in community high schools as the RCMP School Liaison Officer, Const. Sam Gerstmar, helps bring to light the dangers of impaired driving.
Mounties will also be partnering with local health and addictions professionals to deliver a program titled Preventing Alcohol Related Trauma in Youth (PARTY). Education and awareness sessions will take place in May, June and the fall.
In a statement, the Battlefords RCMP says work through education and enforcement remains a high priority. Saskatchewan has the highest rates of impaired driving in the country.
The RCMP says that social attitudes towards drinking and driving need to change and the work they’re doing is expected to create that change. They won’t just be watching for alcohol impairment either; The Battlefords RCMP Detachment has the Drager DrugTest 5000 which takes a sample of saliva and once entered into the instrument can test for cannabis (THC) and cocaine.
Mounties say they remain committed to continuing working jointly with MADD, SADD, local government, school boards, provincial and community organizations in raising awareness and highlighting the risks of impaired driving.
From May 12-18, police forces will also be celebrating National Police Week. The Battlefords RCMP will be hosting a barbecue at the detachment on Wednesday, May 15 from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. All proceeds will be donated to the Battlefords Boys and Girls Club. Mounties invite everyone in the community to come out and look forward to seeing familiar faces.