KELOWNA, B.C. – Kelowna RCMP say there’s been a 19.8 per cent increase in drunk driving reports through 911 in the last twelve months.
They are attributing the increase to signage installed around the Central Okanagan community which encourages people to report possible impaired drivers.
‘Campaign 911’ (Report Impaired Drivers to 9-1-1) was launched in December 2012 by the RCMP, City of Kelowna and Mothers Against Drunk Driving, Central Okanagan Chapter.
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Signs were installed street-side around the city.
“These are positive results and we look forward to seeing more public participation during the second year of the program,” says Cst. Kris Clark, Kelowna RCMP spokesperson.
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Drinking and driving remains one of the leading causes of vehicle crashes, according to RCMP.
“One year ago we stood together to launch this program hoping we could potentially save a life or prevent an injury – today we know we have,” says Mayor Walter Gray.
MADD’s ‘Campaign 911’ operates in more than 70 Canadian communities.
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