The four police forces across Wales are asking motorists to give alcohol a wide berth this Christmas, and play it safe not sorry.
For some drivers, the temptation may be to have one or two drinks in the belief that you won’t fall foul of the law.
But police say this is a dangerous game to play, and that the ‘don’t drink and drive’ message does not only apply to those who are ‘drunk’.
“Everybody’s metabolism is different and people will process alcohol differently,” said Assistant Chief Constable Nick Ingram from Dyfed Powys Police who is launching this year’s all Wales campaign. “What we’re saying this year is that even one drink is too much, and could affect your judgement and driving capability. We cannot calculate how much we can drink safely and then drive – the only safe way is to either drink OR drive.
“We’d also like to remind motorists that they could still be over the limit right though the following day depending on how much alcohol has been consumed. A conviction for drink driving can ruin your life, and can lead to imprisonment or a criminal conviction.”
Chief Inspector Dave Roome from North Wales Police’s Operational Services Division said: “This year’s All Wales Christmas Anti Drink Drive campaign will once again set about warning drivers that drinking and driving will not be tolerated.
“There will be a robust approach, both before and after Christmas, and if you break the law and drive over the limit you not only run the risk of disqualification and a criminal prosecution, you also risk your own life, as well as the lives of others.
He added: “Officers throughout Wales are committed to making our roads safer and will be conducting targeted patrols in a bid to reduce the number of motorists who decide to drink or take drugs and then get behind the wheel.”
Welcoming this year’s launch, Ieuan Wyn Jones, Deputy First Minister and Minister for the Economy and Transport, said:
“For many years I have supported the Welsh police forces’ campaign to change attitudes and help cut the number of alcohol related deaths on our roads and I am very proud of the work we’ve done so far.
“We have come a long way and are determined to do everything we can to make Welsh roads safer. But the reality is we cannot do this alone. We need the support of the public to be able to make a real impact. I urge everyone to play their part.
“The small minority who continue to ignore the law risk not only their own lives but the lives of others.”
The advice being given is clear. If you’re planning a night out this festive season think about organising a taxi or using public transport both on the day, and the day after.
Take care with any medication – it’s every driver’s responsibility to ensure that they are safe to drive. If you’re taking medicine, make sure your ability to drive is not affected. The best way to find out is to ask for advice from a doctor, healthcare professional or pharmacist.
And remember, the police will be out and about ensuring that our roads in Wales are kept safe.
If you know of someone who regularly drinks and drives, or if you suspect someone who is behind the wheel whilst under the influence of alcohol, contact the Police on 101, or Crimestoppers Wales anonymously on 0800 555 111.
