Operation Red Nose returns, looking for volunteers

Operation Red Nose is returning to Saskatchewan to offer people safe rides home during the holiday party season.

This is the 10th year the program has been offered in the province.

“There’s no excuse (for) driving impaired, ever through any time of the year, but particularly through the holiday season,” Mayor Michael Fougere said at the program launch on Monday.

Just like other years, those who feel impaired can call the number to get a ride home and volunteers will also drive their vehicle home. The ride is free, but the drivers do collect donations which go to local charities dedicated to youth and amateur sports. In Regina the charity is the Kinsmen.

Police Superintendent Darcy Koch helped launch Operation Red Nose. He said the police are happy to be a part of things like this to encourage people to find a safe ride home.

Cannabis is now legal in Canada, so there may be another reason for people to be asking for a safe ride home this holiday season. Koch said that won’t be changing police enforcement this year.

“We’re still going to be out there, we’re going to be visible. I think this just emphasizes the importance of finding a safe ride home, and it gives you the option. You can make that conscious decision because it’s there for you.”

The program begins on November 30 and continues through December 31. It’s operating in Regina, Saskatoon, Yorkton, Prince Albert, and the Battlefords this year.

The program is looking for volunteers to be part of the driving teams. People can volunteer in groups as a full team of three or multiple teams, or individually. Volunteer forms can be found on the Operation Red Nose website.