It's become as much a part of the holiday season as caroling and trimming the tree.
The Delta Police Department is kicking off its annual drinking and driving CounterAttack program this weekend.
Beginning tonight and continuing until Jan. 1, officers will set up roadblocks throughout the community in a bid to nab impaired drivers.
"Delta police will be visible in drinking establishments and will be conducting roving patrols near and around these premises to create awareness of police presence, which will serve as a reminder for patrons to not drink and drive," said department spokesperson Const. Ciaran Feenan.
"Delta police are encouraging everyone to plan for safe rides home, and to utilize designated driving pro-grams, taxis and transit."
In addition to looking for drivers under the influence, police will also be keeping an eye out for other driving offences, such as speed and seatbelt violations, Feenan said.
Last year about 4,000 drivers passed through roadblocks.
Of that, 107 were asked to give a breath sample, which means an officer had reason to suspect the driver had consumed alcohol before getting behind the wheel. Of the drivers asked to take the breath test, 94 passed, six registered a warn, six registered a fail and one refused to take the test.
For those partygoers that have taken part in some liquid holiday cheer, Operation Red Nose Delta/ Richmond is once again available to help people, and their vehicles, get home safely after a night of celebrating.
Operation Red Nose is operating Dec. 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.
"The Delta Police Department would like to take this opportunity to ask for the cooperation of all motorists to drive responsibly to ensure that we all have a safe and happy holiday season," Feenan said.
