Christmas Crackdown: Police Launch Festive Drink and Drug Driving Campaign
From 1 December to 1 January 2022, police are cracking down hard on drink and drug driving. The campaign, Op Holly, mixes tough enforcement with educational efforts to stop impaired drivers ruining the festive season.
Deadly Dangers Behind the Wheel
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs massively ups the risk of fatal or serious road crashes. Sergeant Dave Hazlett of the Joint Operations Roads Policing Unit said:
“Every year we run Op Holly, and every year people still get behind the wheel drunk or impaired. It’s shocking and dangerous.”
Plan Your Party, Plan Your Journey
Sergeant Hazlett urges partygoers to think before they drive:
- Use public transport or taxis.
- Have a designated driver when out with friends.
- Remember, the morning after counts — alcohol and drugs can stay in your system for hours, leaving you still over the limit.
“Even the smallest trace of alcohol or drugs can affect your driving and put lives at risk,” he added. “Plan your journeys and how you’ll get home to keep everyone safe this Christmas.”
Take Action: Don’t Risk It
The police message is crystal clear: don’t drink or drug drive – it’s not worth the risk. If you suspect someone is driving impaired, call 999 in an emergency, 101 to report, or submit information online.
Stay safe on the roads this festive season – your life and others’ depend on it.
