As summer holidays approach, BC Ferries is reminding customers the consumption of drugs and alcohol on its vessels and at its terminals is prohibited, and customers arriving at the terminals impaired will be reported to police. Last fiscal year there were 127 separate incidents where police were called out to one of BC Ferries’ terminals because of a suspected impaired walk-on passenger or driver.
“BC Ferries is dedicated to the safety of its customers and employees,” said Corrine Storey, BC Ferries’ vice president of customer services. “I am very proud of our employees for the way in which they handle these challenging incidents. We have a zero tolerance policy for passengers under the influence of drugs or alcohol and the unacceptable conduct as well as safety issues that can be associated with impairment.”
Just like on the road, it’s against the law to operate a motor vehicle on BC Ferries’ ships or at its terminals while under the influence. BC Ferries reports individuals suspected of operating their vehicles while intoxicated to local police and works to help the authorities identify impaired drivers. BC Ferries encourages customers who witness the consumption of drugs or alcohol to report it to an employee to ensure the safety of all customers and employees.
“Drivers should realize that a ferry crossing is not a good excuse to either drink alcohol or consume drugs, then get into their vehicles to drive. But if they make a poor choice, police will be on the other side to greet them,” said Constable Melissa Wutke, spokesperson for BC RCMP Traffic Services. “The RCMP will continue to work with BC Ferries to keep the public safe on our roads.”
BC Ferries takes pride in its safety protocols, and the prevention of crashes and deaths due to drinking and driving is very important to the company not only during the summer months but all year long. BC Ferries wished all of its customers a safe and enjoyable summer season.
