November 28, 2012
Surrey – The City of Surrey, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), Surrey RCMP, Surrey Fire Service and emergency personnel from around the region launched Project Red Ribbon today at City Hall.
Project Red Ribbon is MADD’s signature public awareness campaign and runs for two months during the holiday season. People are invited to attach a red ribbon to their vehicles, key chains, purses, briefcases and backpacks as a way of showing their commitment to safe and sober driving.
“The red ribbon is a tribute to honour those killed or injured in impaired driving crashes, and is a visual reminder of the destructive and often deadly consequences of driving while impaired,” says Mayor Dianne Watts. “The numbers show many people are still choosing to take a chance by driving under the influence, and we’re asking people to make a conscious decision to drive sober during the holiday season and throughout the year.”
Police report that over 1,074 Canadians were killed by impaired drivers in 2011, and over 63,000 people were injured.
“This little red ribbon packs a big message,” says Bob Rorison, Past President of MADD Metro Vancouver. “It reminds people to plan ahead for a safe ride home if they’re going to be drinking. It reminds people that impaired driving puts lives at risk. It reminds people that the deaths and injuries resulting from this violent crime are needless and totally preventable.”
The 2012 Project Red Ribbon campaign runs from November 1st, 2012 to January 7th, 2013.
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Media Contacts:
Tara Foslien
Senior Communications Specialist
Office of the Mayor
604.375.4584
Bob Rorison
Past President MADD Metro Vancouver
Office: 604.419.3757
Cell: 778.928.2486
