Operation Red Nose: 3 tips for drunk passengers

Operation Red Noseis a resource people can use to get home safely after enjoying holiday libations.The program operates in the Fraser Valley and Metro Vancouver from Agassiz to West Vancouver with the exception of the City of Vancouver.

The freeservice runs from9 p.m. to 3 a.m. PT every Friday and Saturday evening until the end of the year. The service uses teams of three volunteers two accompany the owner of a vehicle who doesn't feel fit to drive, the other follows in their own vehicle.

The service is free, but Operation Red Nose accepts donations, which are directed toKidSport a non-profitthat providesfinancial assistance for sport registration fees and equipment to children aged 18 and under.

Here are the organization's top tips for how to behave with a designated driver:

1. Don't ever try to grab the steering wheel

"Be cognizant of the fact were still trying to drive," said Greg Garrison, a volunteer with the program in theTri-Cities,Burnabyand New Westminster region.

"It always seems like so much fun when you're involved in the drinking. But whenyou're trying to drive you do need folks to sit down, have their seat belt on, and try and respect the fact that we're trying to get them home safely."

2. Don't be shy

Wilson and other local OperationRed Nose volunteers encourage passengers to engage with them.

"We find people are always generally in a really good mood," Wilson said.

"Some nights I've sang half an hour of songs with them."

"Keep in mind the Christmas spirit," saidDaveMcCloskey, another volunteer.

"Theres great laughter and stories. You get apologies all the time for the condition [passengers are]in, but we say you dont need to apologize, this is your vehicle, and were getting you home safe."

3. Don't throw up

Enough said!

The folks from Operation Red Nose also recommend dressing warmly while waiting to be picked up, and being prepared to leave when the volunteer drivers arrive.

To reach an Operation Red Nose operator anywhere in the Lower Mainland, call1-877-604-6673.