Malcolm Gorrill
Northern News Services

Inuvik (Feb 01/02) - Inuvik RCMP are using a new sensor to screen suspected impaired drivers.

The Alco-Sensor IV is a hand held device which measures the amount of alcohol in a person's breath. Six members of the Inuvik detachment received training on the sensor Jan. 20 and began using it Jan. 24.

Const. Serge Robitaille explained that a mouthpiece is inserted into the sensor, and that the display will then say it's ready. A driver suspected of being impaired then blows into the mouthpiece.

"As soon as a simple sample is obtained, the device analyzes the sample automatically. I don't have to do anything other than instruct the subject how to blow," Robitaille said.

"As soon as the proper volume is obtained, it kicks into analysis mode."

Within about 30 seconds the sensor will render a result of either a pass, a warn or a fail.

A "warn" reading can result in suspension of the driver's licence for a maximum of 24 hours.

A driver who fails this test is taken back to the detachment to provide two breath samples to a larger machine.

Robitaille explained that this is the first such roadside screening device Inuvik RCMP have had, and that it will make it easier for them to decide whether to take somebody to their detachment for a breath sample. He noted that in some cases members can be fairly sure that a driver is impaired, and so will not use the screening device but will instead take them in.

Robitaille explained the Alco-Sensor will be useful in those cases where it's hard to tell if a driver is over the legal limit or not.

"Some people actually don't show any signs of impairment."

Robitaille noted that with six members trained on how to use the Alco-Sensor, that means at least one trained member can be on each shift. He said the goal is to eventually have all members trained on it.