Police enhance breathalyser patrols on weekends

The police have been engaged in intensive surveillance of pre-Christmas traffic on the two final weekends of November (17–19 November and 24–26 November), based on the theme ‘Sober in pre-Christmas traffic’.

During the surveillance period, the police will organize breathalyser patrols during the evenings and nights in particular, said a press release on Friday.

The driving condition of motorists will also be checked in morning traffic on Saturdays and Sundays.

“When leaving for a restaurant or other Christmas party venue, you should leave your car behind and use public transport if you intend to celebrate Christmas with alcohol. And one or more reflectors should be worn on outer clothing by pedestrians to ensure safety when moving around in the dark,” said Chief Superintendent Timo Ajaste of the National Police Board.

In addition to surveillance of drunk driving, the police will also oversee public order and safety in city and town centres.

“Visible surveillance near restaurants and bars also prevents drunk driving,” Ajaste added.

According to preliminary data from Statistics Finland, 28 people died and 443 were injured in drunk driving accidents in January to September this year.

With respect to serious drunk driving accidents, November was the darkest month of last year. Ten people lost their lives during that period.