**** New Glasgow Police Release
Nova Scotia Police Operation Christmas takes aim at Impaired Driving
The province of Nova Scotia is joining with law enforcement to make Nova Scotia roads safer for travelers this holiday season.
Law enforcement agencies across the province are teaming up today, December 4th 2024, in New Glasgow to launch Operation Christmas. The annual campaign is aimed at reducing impaired driving and encouraging motorists to practice safe winter driving.
Law Enforcement will be on the roads today performing checkpoints throughout Pictou County (Wednesday December 4th 2024) conducting enforcement and handing out educational materials about the dangers of impaired driving.
To signify the start of Operation Christmas, checkpoints targeting impaired drivers will be set up throughout New Glasgow. There will be an increased number of checkpoints across the province throughout the holiday season.
Impaired driving is one of the leading causes of preventable death and serious injuries on Nova Scotia’s roads. New Glasgow Regional Police is partnering with Pictou County RCMP, Stellarton Police Service and Westville Police Service to host Operation Christmas 2024. In addition, law enforcement officers from every policing agency, including transportation will also be attending sending a clear message of the dangers and consequences of impaired driving has on victims.
“Operation Christmas is a shared responsibility between law enforcement and the community to eliminate all injuries and deaths due to impaired driving during the holiday season,” said New Glasgow Regional Police Chief Ryan Leil. “Operation Christmas is a great opportunity for road safety partners to remind motorists about the importance of planning ahead to ensure everyone gets home safely.”
“MADD Canada (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) appreciates the opportunity to participate with law enforcement, responders, and other highway safety partners as part of Operation Christmas,” said Shayla Morag Steeves, Atlantic Regional Manager for MADD Canada. “Today’s provincial launch means police will conduct an increased number of sobriety check points in their own communities over the holidays. We are asking motorists to exercise responsible choices and to drive safe and sober.”
The Criminal Code makes it illegal to drive with a blood-alcohol level above .08. Nova Scotia imposes administrative penalties, including a minimum seven-day license suspension, for motorists who are driving with a blood-alcohol content of .05 to .08.
With winter only weeks away, Nova Scotia motorists are also reminded to prepare for winter driving conditions.
With the holiday season upon us and winter weather just around the corner, it is imperative the we prepare our vehicles for safe winter travel. Snow tires and preventative maintenance items such as battery testing, wiper blade replacement and stocking the car with emergency roadside kits will ensure we all arrive at our destination safely.
