MADD Canada wants fatality-free holiday weekend
Group calls for safe and sober driving on roads and waterways

August 27, 2008, National Release – Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD Canada) is urging all Canadians to drive sober on roads and waterways throughout this Labour Day holiday weekend.

Margaret Miller, MADD Canada’s National President, hopes that this last long weekend of the summer will be fatality-free.  "We hope all Canadians will enjoy this holiday weekend with friends and family. However, we hope these weekend celebrations will not end in tragedy because of needless impaired driving deaths or injuries.”

“Impaired driving is 100% preventable. Just don't drive a vehicle when you are impaired by alcohol or drugs. Don't get into a vehicle, boat or ATV with a person who is driving impaired. It’s so simple."

Mrs. Miller adds, “If you see a suspected impaired driver on the road, we urge you to call 911 and report the incident to the police. When you take action to make our roads safer, you may be saving a life.”

Throughout the summer, MADD Canada’s over 100 local community organizations have been raising public awareness about the dangers of driving after drinking or taking drugs. MADD Canada also has been actively promoting its national Campaign 911 public awareness campaign, urging Canadians to call and report suspected impaired drivers. As well, the organization’s volunteers have participated in countless parades, fairs and social events throughout the country, and joined police efforts at roadside and waterway checkstops to encourage sober and safe driving.

MADD Canada has developed the following tips for Canadians to have a safe holiday – free of impaired driving incidents.  

• Plan ahead to be sure you know how you are getting home. Arrange for a designated driver you can trust, call a taxi or arrange a safe ride home.
• If you are driving a vehicle, an ATV or a boat, avoid drinking or using drugs – stay sober.
• Take action to stop your friends and family members from getting behind the wheel or into a vehicle with an impaired driver.
• Set a good example by making a personal pledge to always drive sober yourself.
• Be a good host by providing alternatives to alcoholic drinks, ensuring your guests travel home safely, or by offering a place to stay for those who have been drinking.

For more information visit www.madd.ca, or to arrange an interview, call:

Margaret Miller, MADD Canada’s National President @ (902) 758-5328

Wanda Kristensen, Director of Programs @ 1-800-665-6233, ext. 229, cell (905) 330-4632