DRIVERS in Redditch and beyond are being reminded of the dangers of driving under the influence of drink or drugs this summer.
West Mercia Police say drink and drug driving offences typically increases during the summer and with a month of World Cup football at home or on big screens people may be tempted to risk mixing drinking with driving.
As a result the officers will be out in force across the region.
Police say there is no foolproof way of calculating how much you can drink and remain under the limit or work out how long alcohol may stay in your body if you are driving the morning after.
Better, they say, to use public transport, taxis or share designated drivers.
Pedestrians too are also being encouraged to stay safe during the summer and to plan safe routes home and to drink responsibly.
Figures indicate that, in the past three years, 17 people were killed and 104 seriously injured in West Mercia following collisions where drink or drugs were recorded as a contributory factor.
Assistant Chief Constable Martin Evans for West Mercia Police said: “Cracking down on those who take drugs or drink and then drive is a year round commitment.
“We are very aware the summer period and significant sporting events can present opportunities where people are tempted to drive after taking drugs or drinking.
“To combat this, extra attention will be made throughout the summer to tackle those who commit the unacceptable act of drinking or drug driving.
“Our message is simple; There is only one way of being sure that you are safe to drive and that is not to drink at all.
Enjoy the World Cup responsibly, don’t drink and drive.”
