News release

Northwest Territories RCMP to participate in National Impaired Driving Prevention Week

March 13, 2026 - Yellowknife, Northwest Territories
From: Northwest Territories RCMP

Content

National Impaired Driving Prevention Week, a Public Safety Canada initiative, is designated as the third week of March each year. The Northwest Territories RCMP recognize the importance of educating the public about the consequences of impaired driving due to alcohol, drugs, fatigue or distraction which destroys the lives and health of thousands of Canadians.

Collisions involving alcohol or drugs remain the leading criminal cause of death and injury in Canada. Alcohol, drugs, cannabis, over-the-counter and/or prescription medications can all impact your judgement, coordination, and reaction time behind the wheel. According to the most recent statistics from MADD Canada, approximately 1 in 4 fatal collisions involves an alcohol-impaired driver.

Fatigue or distraction can have very similar effects on a person’s ability to operate a vehicle. Distraction alone is believed to be a factor in approximately four million collisions in North America each year.

Remember, impaired driving doesn't just apply to cars – it also applies to off-road vehicles such as ATV’s, snowmobiles and other forms of transportation.

During this initiative, which runs from March 15th to March 23rd, the public can expect to see an increased police presence on roadways as officers prioritize efforts to combat impaired driving in all forms.
The public is reminded to be prepared to provide a breath sample to police during any traffic stop, as part of Mandatory Alcohol Screening laws.

Everyone has a role to play to help keep Canada's roads, trails and waterways safe. Impaired driving and its consequences are 100% preventable. Plan your travel accordingly!

Contacts