AMHERST – Amherst’s police department has kicked off its annual Operation Christmas campaign.
Reducing impaired driving offenses and reminding motorists to practice safe winter driving will be the aim of the campaign.
The campaign, which began Dec. 9, hopes to remind people of the variety of choices that they have after consuming alcohol such as calling a sober driver, calling a taxi or staying the night.
Driving under the influence has become one of the leading causes of preventable death and serious injury on Nova Scotia roads. According to MADD Canada, on average, approximately four people are killed each day in crashes involving alcohol and/or drugs.
Police are reminding the public that the Criminal Code makes it illegal to drive with a blood alcohol level over .08. Drivers with a blood alcohol level of .05 to .08 will receive a minimum seven-day license suspension.
The police department will be conducting checkpoints throughout the Christmas season and urge everyone to call 911 if they suspect an impaired driver.
