It was another successful year in keeping impaired drivers off local roads, according to both Delta police and Operation Red Nose.
Delta police officers were out in force over the holidays with roving patrols as well as Counter Attack roadblocks set up at various locations.
A/Sgt. Sarah Swallow said over four weekends, the roadblocks saw more than 7,500 vehicles. Out of that, just six drivers were issued prohibitions because they had been drinking.
"Given the number of vehicles checked, these are excellent results," Swallow said. "It appears that, for the most part, people are getting the message that alcohol and driving do not mix and are finding safe ways to make it home."
In addition to the six alcohol-related driving offences, officers at the roadblocks also issued 27 tickets for various other offences, 16 written warnings and issued three roadside prohibitions to drivers impaired by drugs.
With many people choosing to find another way home from holiday festivities, the Delta/Richmond Operation Red Nose volunteers were busy last month.
More than 250 volunteers drove almost 22,000 kilometres over four weekends in November and December, as well as New Year's Eve, providing 662 safe rides home.
"This was the 12th year that Delta Gymnastics Society has hosted this outstanding program and we are proud and pleased to host this service for our community," said local co-ordinator Carlene Lewall. "As with all the Operation Red Nose programs across Canada, all the money raised goes back to the kids and in Delta/Richmond's case it is assisting to equip the Delta Sport Development Centre so all children can attend and have the opportunity to be healthy and active for life."
This year, users of the services donated more than $21,000.
Lewall thanked the Operation Red Nose sponsors that helped by supplying phones, food, advertising, the Rudy van and criminal record checks for volunteers, as well as financial support.
"With these continuous commitments of support, Operation Red Nose will continue to be available in our community," she said.
