Those planning to have some fun this holiday season are being encouraged to also plan a safe ride home afterwards.

SGI Communications Consultant Jeremy Pilon says as the season of holiday gatherings and office parties approaches, SGI’s November Traffic Safety Spotlight is casting a light on impaired driving.

“In particular, we want to remind people the role that they can have in helping themselves and their friends get home safe by being designated driver, that safe driver home, at the end of the night when people have been out celebrating and having a good time.”

Pilon says over the last five years, there has been an average of 31 deaths and over 350 injuries per year as a result of impaired driving in Saskatchewan. He adds that last year, drug or alcohol impairment was a factor in 32 per cent of traffic fatalities in the province.

He says instances like these could be avoided by opting to use Transit, ride share, a taxi, walking, or utilizing Operation Red Nose in urban areas.

In rural areas, Pilon says options are slim, but you could deem someone in your group as a designated driver before the night begins or stay the night at a friend or family member’s house. Pilon also encourages the public to stay sober and offer to be the designated driver.