Abbotsford Students Create Bags to Combat Impaired Driving

In an innovative effort to combat impaired driving, students from the Abbotsford School District have designed eye-catching paper bags to be distributed at local liquor stores this holiday season. The initiative, part of the campaign titled “Think of Me: Don’t Drive Impaired,” is a collaboration between Angry Otter Liquor, the Abbotsford School District, the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC), and the Abbotsford Police Department.

The bags feature engaging illustrations and catchy slogans aimed at encouraging responsible behaviour among adults. Messages such as “keep the cheer; skip the steer,” “jingle all the way into a taxi,” and “don’t be a goober, get an Uber” are printed alongside drawings of Santa posing for a mugshot and the Grinch with a suspended driver’s licence. In total, middle and high school students have created approximately 1,300 bags, which will be available at various Angry Otter Liquor locations throughout Abbotsford.

Raising Awareness for Safe Driving

The campaign seeks to address the serious issue of impaired driving, particularly during the holiday season when celebrations often involve alcohol. According to data from ICBC, an average of 65 people die each year in British Columbia due to crashes involving impaired driving. The initiative’s goal is not only to raise awareness but also to promote safe driving practices within the community.

“This holiday season, we’re urging everyone to plan ahead for a safe and sober ride home,” stated Duane Dougan from ICBC in a recent news release. “Celebrate responsibly by relying on a designated driver or choosing rideshare, taxi, or transit. Together, we can make our roads safer and protect lives in our communities.”

The Abbotsford Police Department has also been active in addressing impaired driving. In 2025 alone, officers have removed 1,182 impaired drivers from the roads, including 11 individuals apprehended on a single Saturday night. The department emphasizes the profound consequences associated with impaired driving.

A Call for Responsible Choices

“Impaired driving has life-altering consequences. This holiday season, we want you to make it home safely to your loved ones,” urged Sgt. Paul Walker of the Abbotsford Police Department in the same news release. He encouraged all community members to choose responsible driving options to ensure a safe reunion with family and friends.

The collaborative effort between local students and community organizations highlights the importance of engaging young people in public safety campaigns. By using creativity and humour, the initiative aims to foster a culture of responsibility and awareness, ultimately contributing to safer roads during one of the busiest times of the year.