It's that time of year again.
Operation Red Nose Delta/Richmond held a special event last week to kick off this year's campaign. It's the 11th year for the local program.
Starting later this month and running through to New Year's Eve, teams of volunteers will be out on local roads to offer people another option for a safe ride home during the holiday season.
"Drinking and driving has caused so much hurt and loss for so many in our community," said Delta police Chief Jim Cessford at last Friday's launch. "Drinking and driving is totally avoidable."
Founded in 1984 by Jean-Marie De Koninck, Operation Red Nose is a national road safety campaign. It gets both drivers and their vehicles home safely. The service is free but donations are gratefully accepted and all the money raised goes to benefit Delta Gymnastics and the Delta Sports Development Centre.
It's been in B.C. for 17 years with Delta and Richmond coming on board 11 years ago.
Motorists in Delta and Richmond, along with 13 other areas in B.C., can count on the services of Operation Red Nose to get themselves and their vehicles home safely after a night of celebrating.
Every year, more than 300 volunteers take part in Operation Red Nose locally, helping countless others to get home safely.
Operation Red Nose is still looking for volunteers for this year's campaign, especially on New Years Eve.
"I can tell you, you won't be sorry because it is a lot of fun," said co-ordinator Carlene Lewall.
Anyone over the age of 19 is welcome to volunteer. There are many positions that need to be filled, including dispatch office, greeters, drivers and navigators.
All volunteers receive an orientation prior to their shift and must have a criminal record check done beforehand.
This year, Operation Red Nose will serve Delta and Richmond on Nov. 30, Dec. 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22 and 31 between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m.
Clients are advised to call 604-943-0460 to arrange a ride 30 to 45 minutes in advance of their desired pick up time, and 60 minutes in advance after midnight.
To volunteer visit www. operationrednosedelta.com or call Delta Gymnastics at 604-943-0460.
