As of Dec. 11, 151 Holiday RIDE (Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere) spot-checks have been conducted, with officers stopping over 38,000 drivers.

So far, 780 drivers have been tested, with 21 drivers being charged with over 80 mg/100ml of alcohol, three with refusing to provide a breath sample and seven with impaired driving.

“We are higher this year to date which is always disappointing,” said Traffic Services RIDE coordinator Const. Lee Bishop. “Some people are still not paying attention and making alternative choices for transportation.”

Bishop said it’s important to plan ahead to take a cab or TTC, even stay in a hotel or a friend’s house.

“Any alcohol you consume will impair you as a driver,” said Bishop, who warned that drivers shouldn’t take a drop before hitting the road.

“We will continue to work hard to get the message out to let public know that drinking and driving is unacceptable behaviour.”

She said the increased enforcement over the holiday season is important.

“We’re trying to prevent a family losing a loved one over the holiday season,” said Bishop. “It’s a time to celebrate and be around family and the ones you love.”