Carmarthenshire Special Constables anti drink drive campaign action

As part of the ongoing All Wales Summer Anti Drink/Drug Drive campaign 2013, officers from Dyfed Powys Police’s Carmarthenshire Special Constabulary carried out high visibility static stop check points on the A484 at Pembrey, and Pontardulais Road in Llangennech on Sunday 16 June.

The aim of their pro-active approach was to raise motorists awareness of drink driving, and particularly driving after drinking the night before.

The month long campaign, will see Forces increase the pressure and focus on those drivers who drink and drive or drive under the influence of drugs.

Dyfed Powys Police Road Safety Officer and Chair Road Safety Wales Sue Storch said;

“Our advice is that if you’re expecting to drink alcohol during the Summer season, plan how to get home without driving.

“If you’re drinking at barbeques be aware that you may not know how much you are consuming and don’t offer an alcoholic drink to someone you know is planning to drive and don’t accept a lift from a driver you know has drunk alcohol. And be aware that you may still be over the legal limit the following day – the only safe way is to either drink or drive not both.”

A total of 65 vehicles were stopped and 53 breathalysers administered by the Special Constables. None of those were over the limit, although one driver was given suitable advice about their ability to drive following a reading that came in just under the legal limit.

Special Inspector Paul Jenkins said;

“As Special Constables we provide support to the regular police service, and carry out the same duties and have the same powers. The national Summer drink drive campaign is an important part of making the roads safer for everyone, and we wanted to play our part in ensuring that we engaged with and educated drivers as part of the campaign. It was certainly worthwhile as the response from drivers was very positive, with many commenting on the fact they were pleased that the checks were taking place.”

Gwent Police has also produced a short film to reiterate the messages of the campaign which can be viewed on http://youtu.be/ue6NW5A3DFM