Inuvik (Dec 06/04) - Inuvik RCMP have a message for those who still think drinking and driving is an acceptable choice.

"If you don't appoint a designated driver, one will be appointed for you," is the catchy new slogan aimed at drivers over the holiday season.

Cpl. Merle Carpenter says with the new impaired driving rules in effect as of Dec. 1, police will ensure enforcement throughout the community.

"We will have road checks and road blocks over the season," Carpenter said. "Alcohol is a major concern."

And within the Inuvik area, accidents and injuries are a real possibility, he noted. "We don't want people driving in town or through school zones weaving or speeding. Kids on the road are not always aware of the environment around them and it could be dangerous for them."

In Fort McPherson, Sgt. Cliff McKay said his officers will also be performing check stops to ensure drivers are safe and sober. "We'll be doing more patrols, but because of the new legislation, we'll be doing more education as well about the changes," McKay said.

The new acceptable limit for blood alcohol content has been lowered to .05 per cent from .08 per cent.

Police now have the authority to impose an automatic 24-hour driving suspension on drivers whose blood alcohol content measures between .05 per cent and .079 per cent. Police cannot charge a driver with a criminal offence for having under .08 alcohol level in their blood, but can choose to impound their vehicle for 30 days. If a driver is caught with between .05 and .079 blood alcohol volume a second time within two years, a 30-day licence suspension will be imposed. For new drivers, any alcohol in their blood will automatically mean their licence will be suspended for 30 days.