Police enhance breathalyser tests on weekends

The police are engaging in intensive surveillance of pre-Christmas traffic on the two final weekends of November (16-18 November and 23-25 November) based on the theme ‘Sober in pre-Christmas traffic’, said the National Police Board in a press release.

During the surveillance period, the police will organise breathalyser patrols during the evenings and nights in particular. The driving condition of motorists may 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 for instance public transport, if you intend to celebrate with alcohol. It is also important for pedestrians to wear one or more reflectors on outer clothing to ensure safety when moving around in the dark,” said National Police Board Chief Superintendent Timo Ajaste.

In addition to surveillance of drunk driving, the police will also oversee public order and safety particularly in the vicinity of licensed premises.

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

In January to September this year, a total of 398 people died or were injured in drunk-driving accidents. In recent years, November has been the darkest month of the year with respect to serious drunk-driving accidents.