06/15/2017
Please take the time to pre plan, make good decisions and help others make good decisions! Carlton Community High School
With grad season in full swing, the Prince Albert Police Service would like to remind students to have a safe and fun Grad 2017 and to and not to consume illegal drugs during graduation parties.
"We want to remind grads to enjoy planned festivities but to resist the temptations of consuming street drugs," said Police Chief Troy Cooper. "When drugs are illegally purchased, you can't guarantee what you are consuming, the potency level or what the drugs could potentially be mixed with. One night of fun, could have potentially fatal consequences. We want to get the message out there it is not worth taking that risk," said Cooper.
PAPS would also like to remind youth to plan for a designated driver if drinking. There are strong consequences that came into effect January 1 for new drivers and drivers 21 years of age and under. If there is any alcohol or drugs detected the person can lose their license for a minimum of 60 days and their vehicle for a minimum of three days.
According to SGI statistics, drivers 19 years of age and younger account for about seven per cent of licensed drivers in Saskatchewan. That same age group comprised 10 per cent of impaired drivers involved in fatal collisions in the province.
In 2015, there were 120 impaired driving collisions in Saskatchewan involving teen drivers, resulting in seven deaths and 73 injuries.
Some tips for parents of new graduates include:
- Remind them it’s never okay to mix alcohol and drugs with driving;
- Let them know they should never ride with anyone who is impaired and that they can;
call for a ride or assistance, no matter what time. Be awake to meet them when they come home and be alert for signs of drug or alcohol use.