Latest News

Summer 2017 Drink Drive Campaign

Published: 31/05/2017

Flintshire County Council is supporting the all Wales Drink / Drug driving campaign and would like to highlight this very important message. All Welsh police forces are joining together for a summer campaign targeting Drink / Drug drivers. The campaign starts on 1 June 2017. At this time of year, the temptation to drink and drive is even greater as people are often tempted to have a few drinks socialising with friends, and then they don’t think about the dangers of getting behind the wheel. Flintshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Streetscene and Countryside, Councillor Carolyn Thomas, said: “We want people to enjoy themselves over the summer months. But, if you’re going to a beer garden after work or a friend’s barbecue at the weekend, then we urge you to think about how you are going to get home. If you plan to drink, book a taxi, use public transport, stay overnight, arrange for someone who is not drinking to drive and don’t be tempted to get into a car with anyone who has been drinking! Stay safe this summer.” Drugs also affect the way you think and behave and this can have a significant impact on your sense of judgement and reaction times. Be smart about drug driving and think before you get behind the wheel or accept a lift from someone who you know is not in a fit state to drive. Remember, possession of illegal drugs is an offence and you could receive a heavy penalty including a fine and/or prison sentence for possession or intent to supply and the penalties are the same as for drink driving; a fine, a ban, and a criminal record. Please also be aware that some prescribed drugs and those you can buy over the counter such as cold and flu medicine can also affect your ability to drive and always read the label if you’re taking prescribed medication including antihistamines and tranquilisers. If the label advises against ‘operating heavy machinery’ consider it a warning not to get behind the wheel. We all know that drinking and driving does not mix and alcohol is a drug like any other. Don’t drink/drug drive. Don’t even think about it.