Holiday advice

Montreal police are gearing up prevention efforts for the holiday season, said Station 1 community relation officer Roberto Del Papa.

First, all residents must get their snow tires on by today or risk a $300 fine. The period for mandatory snow tires extends from Dec.15 to March 15.



Second, the police will exercise a zero tolerance policy for drinking and driving. Although the enforced limit is 0.08, drivers with a blood alcohol content lower than that can still be charged.

Del Papa suggests two alternatives to drinking and driving: the Point Zero 8 program and Opération Nez Rouge. Both are designated driving services that use the motorist's own vehicle. While Opération Nez Rouge is volunteer-run and available to anyone free of charge, Point Zero 8 can be used only by members for a variable fee.