Operation Red Nose cancels safe-ride program

Operation Red Nose has cancelled its free ride service this year in light of COVID-19, but the national organization is still making sure people have options for safe rides home.

“After careful deliberation it was established that, given the current pandemic situation, we would not be able to ensure the logistics required for the safer ride services,” said spokesperson Aurelie Levy.

“The security of our clients and of our volunteers is very important for us.”

The safe ride program has been running for 11 years in partnership with SGI and volunteer groups in Saskatoon, the Battlefords, Prince Albert and Yorkton. This year, Operation Red Nose is instead promoting its new campaign website as a resource for ways people can “take the reins” and be safe this season.

People are encouraged to show their commitment to driving sober with social media posts.

“We have always encouraged people to call a friend, to call a relative, to call a cab, to call Operation Red Nose last year. But this year we are counting on the people to continue this tradition of sound decisions and to always plan a safe way to get home,” Levy said.

SGI spokesman Tyler McMurchy said it's unfortunate not to have Operation Red Nose running this year, but he understands the difficulties.

Given pandemic restrictions, there may be fewer holiday work parties and house parties, which makes it difficult to determine the demand.

With provincial public health restrictions limiting group gatherings, Mcmurchy said the safest option for parties is group video chats.

If people do leave the house, the advice is the same as it has been in the past: don't wait until the end of the night to make a plan to get home safely, Mcmurchy said.

It's important to look at the available transportation options and have a mask, since they're required for using public transit, taxis or ride-share services.

Mothers Against Drunk Drivers (MADD)'S Project Red Ribbon campaign is reminding people that, in addition to abiding by public health restrictions, it's still important to drive sober.

Bonny Stevenson, president of the Saskatoon MADD chapter, noted the responsibly to make safe choices is on partygoers as well as hosts.

Hosts can ensure guests don't drive impaired by offering non-alcoholic or low alcoholic beverages as well as food.

Hosts should know how guests are getting home and be aware if guests consume alcohol or drugs.

If people find themselves without masks and in need of a safe, sober ride home, SGI recommends finding the safest option available — calling a sober friend for a ride, staying over at a party or finding a hotel within walking distance.