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Surrey RCMP, Delta Police serving up cold enforcement – or hot coffee

A multi-agency roadside check to stop impaired drivers begins Wednesday, Dec. 30.
BOAZ JOSEPH / THE LEADER
Just in time for New Year's revelers: Police and ICBC are launching a roadside blitz targeting impaired motorists – and rewarding designated drivers.

Starting today (Wednesday, Dec. 30), Surrey RCMP, Delta Police and ICBC will launch a blitz targeting impaired drivers.

Police in Surrey and Delta will set up CounterAttack roadblocks at several locations in an attempt to weed out drunk or drug-impaired drivers.

At the same time, police will be embarking on "positive ticketing," whereby designated drivers will receive coupons for free coffee.

“The holiday season is a fun time filled with festive celebrations with friends and family,” said RCMP Sgt. Paul Hayes. “No one wants their holidays ruined by a tragedy that could be easily avoided with a little pre-planning. End the year on a positive note by choosing not to drive while impaired.”

ICBC is also urging people to find an alternative form of transportation when liquor is involved.

“We want everyone to enjoy the holidays, so make sure you plan ahead for a safe ride home,” said Karen Klein, local ICBC road safety coordinator. “Take your turn as the designated driver, call a taxi, take transit or use Operation Red Nose. We all need to do our part to make sure friends and family get home safely.”

On average, 86 people are killed every year in crashes involving impaired driving in B.C.

If you see an impaired driver, pull over when safe and call 911. If you can, have the suspect vehicle description and direction of travel ready for the dispatcher.

For more information on road safety and impaired driving, visit ICBC’s website and the Surrey RCMP website.