As the festive season approaches, Wiltshire Police is issuing a stern warning with the launch of its Christmas Drink and Drug Drive campaign: ‘Don’t risk it.’
The aim is to encourage individuals to plan their journeys responsibly during the celebratory period.
The Roads Policing Unit, neighbourhood teams, and special constabulary are joining forces with the Road Safety Partnership to intensify patrols in the coming weeks. Their primary focus is on identifying and penalising individuals who choose to get behind the wheel under the influence of alcohol or illegal substances.
Acting Inspector Will Ayres said: “As Christmas approaches, we know everyone is getting into the festive spirit with lots of parties and get-togethers planned over the coming weeks. We want everyone to enjoy themselves but to do so safely.
“Drink and drug driving is not worth the risk. Whilst we hold a zero tolerance approach all year round, our December campaign will see our officers conducting extensive operations targeting drivers travelling in and out of our towns, cities and more rural locations of a night time, especially at weekends.”
During the previous December campaign, officers stopped 112 drivers suspected of drink or drug driving, with 11 of them being involved in collisions. The police are determined to maintain road safety and curb the reckless behaviour that endangers lives.
Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson expressed his incredulity at individuals driving under the influence, “I find it impossible to understand what makes anyone think they’re capable of driving when they’re under the influence of alcohol or drugs. As well as putting themselves at risk, they’re putting the lives of their passengers and the wider public in total jeopardy” he said.
“We want everyone to make it home safely and our Roads Policing Unit works hard to make sure those who drink and/or drug drive are apprehended, but I want anyone who thinks it’s acceptable to drive under the influence of drink or drugs to think about what they’re doing before they’re either taken off the road in the back of a police car or worse still, an ambulance.
“It’s just not worth the risk and cracking down on this type of behaviour will save lives and make Wiltshire safer.”
If you suspect somebody of drink or drug driving, please report your concerns to www.wiltshire.police.uk or 101 for all non-emergencies. In an emergency, always call 999. Please try and give as much information as possible, including a description of the driver, the vehicle and direction of travel.
