Drunk Driving Still Top Safety Issue

Impaired driving continues to account for close to 40 per cent of all deaths on Canadian roads, or about 1,200 deaths in 1998 more than double the number of homicides. In 1997, police laid over 84,000 charges related to the impaired operation of a vehicle, more charges than any other criminal offense. Statistics like these point overwhelmingly to the fact that impaired driving continues to be a serious social and health problem which affects all Canadians.

National Safe Driving Week

For most of the past decade, National Safe Driving Week (December 1 to 7) has focussed on impaired driving. The 1999 campaign, "Impaired Driving What's New?" was designed to raise awareness of the most recent changes to Canada's law on impaired driving.

The possible loss of your licence and a fine are the least of your concerns if you drive impaired. The 1999 amendments to the Criminal Code increased Canada's already-strict penalties for those convicted of driving while impaired. For details, see June 1999 Changes to the Criminal Code.

Base Transport from 17 Wing Winnipeg created a crash display at its main gate to highlight what can happen if you drive impaired.

New Public Service Announcement

In March 1998, CSC and the Association of Canadian Distillers (ACD) produced a PSA for radio and television. Based on a quiz show concept, the message was that you can become impaired whatever beverage alcohol you consume. That PSA has been aired extensively across the country.

To start the new millennium, CSC and ACD joined forces to launch a second responsible use PSA. "Do you want to be a winner?" takes its inspiration from a popular new TV quiz show.

For many years, the Department of National Defence and its bases across the country have been strong supporters of the Canada Safety Council and its programs and campaigns. Many bases organize events and publicity in support in support of CSC initiatives and to bring the safety message to their personnel. In December, Base Transport from 17 Wing Winnipeg hosted an instructor training program for CSC's Defensive Driving Course. All 26 candidates from 15 units across central and western Canada were successful and will be strong program representatives. Congratulations to all who took part in the program!

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