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Photo: Shaun Penner
Impaired Driving

Impaired Driving Bus visits Grande Prairie area for the weekend

Jul 12, 2019 | 1:45 PM

Drunk drivers beware: The Impaired Driving Bus is here.

The RCMP will be deploying their Mobile Breath Test Unit this weekend around the Grande Prairie area at various check stops, looking to bust drunk drivers in a more efficient manner.

The unit comes equipped with all the instruments, documentation and resources required to process impaired drivers right at the scene, rather than have the officer bring the accused back to the detachment for processing.

The bus comes equipped with testing units to screen for both alcohol and drugs (Photo: Shaun Penner)

Impaired Driving Specialist with the RCMP’s K Division, Sargent Brent Robinson says that can be particularly time saving when it comes to being stationed in rural areas.

“Basically, one impaired will tie the member up for the full day. Whereas with this one here, we’re on site, it’s done,” said Robinson. “Testing itself takes about half an hour, and so within about three quarters of an hour, we’re back out testing for other impaired drivers.”

The unit was stationed along Highway 11 over the Canada Day long weekend, where they held a check stop near the Bighorn Dam and were able to process a number of impaired drivers on site, rather than having to travel back to the detachment in Rocky Mountain House, which is over 100 kilometres away.

RCMP members along Highway 11 over the Canada Day Long Weekend (Photo: Alberta RCMP)

No specific locations were given as to where they would be set up, but with an event such as the Teepee Creek Stampede going on this weekend, it’s safe to say RCMP will be looking at places like that to keep the roads clear of impaired drivers.

As always, the RCMP ask that if you plan on drinking, please do not drive and find a safe ride home. If not, you may have to make a phone call to your lawyer from the side of the road.

One of two phones within the unit. This one being a satellite phone, which will work anywhere in the province. (Photo: Shaun Penner)