Campaign “Alcohol and Drugs” in Augustów district

In the north-eastern Polish district of Augustów (powiat augustowski), local police officers took part in the nationwide enforcement campaign entitled “Alcohol and Drugs”. The aim of this operation is to consistently remove drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicating substances from road traffic and thus significantly increase the safety of all road users.

Over a defined period, additional checkpoints were set up throughout the district. Both in built-up areas and on important access roads and arterial routes, officers established control points at which vehicles were stopped either at random or in a targeted manner. The focus was on passenger cars as well as delivery vans and other motor vehicles whose drivers were checked for their fitness to drive.

Consistent checks for alcohol and drugs

During the campaign, the police officers used modern measuring devices to detect alcohol in the breath. If there were indications of the consumption of other intoxicating substances, rapid drug tests were also carried out. These tests are primarily intended to identify drivers who are under the influence of substances that, like alcohol, impair reaction time, attention and the ability to assess traffic situations.

The officers paid particular attention to typical signs of impairment such as unstable driving, delayed reactions or conspicuous behaviour when being stopped. Drivers for whom the suspicion was substantiated had to undergo further examinations, for example blood samples to determine the exact concentration of alcohol or other active substances.

Prevention and deterrence as a clear signal

In addition to directly averting danger, the “Alcohol and Drugs” campaign also follows a clearly preventive approach. The visible presence of numerous patrol cars, checkpoints and uniformed officers is intended to send a clear message: anyone who drives after drinking alcohol or using psychoactive substances must expect to be stopped at any time.

The police in the Augustów district stress that every driver who is under the influence of alcohol or drugs poses a serious risk to themselves and others. Even small amounts can slow down reaction times, delay decisions and lead to misjudgement of distances or speeds. As a result, the risk of serious accidents with injuries or fatalities increases considerably.

Informing road users

During the checks, the officers also used the opportunity to talk directly to road users and inform them about the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In these conversations they pointed out the legal limits, explained possible criminal consequences and emphasised that driving licence revocation, fines and, in some cases, prison sentences may follow.

They repeatedly highlighted that responsible planning plays a key role. Anyone who knows that they will be drinking alcohol or taking medication that can affect fitness to drive should organise a safe alternative in advance – such as public transport, taxis or a sober driver.

Part of a nationwide strategy

The participation of the Augustów district in the “Alcohol and Drugs” campaign is part of a comprehensive nationwide strategy to improve road safety. Throughout Poland, thematic days and weeks are regularly organised in which different risk factors are addressed. In addition to alcohol and drug checks, these include speed enforcement campaigns, seat belt checks or measures against distraction at the wheel, for example through the use of mobile phones.

From the authorities’ point of view, the combination of alcohol and other psychoactive substances is a particular problem. Many affected people underestimate the effects or mistakenly believe that they are fully fit to drive again after a short time. During the campaign, the police officers in the Augustów district made it clear that there is zero tolerance for drivers who get behind the wheel despite consuming such substances.

Signal effect for future checks

The results of the operation will feed into the planning of future checks. Focal points, times of day and locations of checkpoints can be adjusted on the basis of the findings in order to monitor particularly hazardous routes even more closely. At the same time, media reporting on operations such as “Alcohol and Drugs” serves as an additional deterrent for potential repeat offenders.

The police in the Augustów district announce that they will continue to carry out regular alcohol and drug checks outside of such special campaigns. This is intended to underline that road safety remains a permanent priority and that driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is not tolerated in any way.

• Consistent checks for alcohol and drug use in road traffic
• Strong preventive effect through visible police presence
• Long-term improvement of road safety in the Augustów district

By participating in the nationwide campaign, the district underscores its determination to sustainably reduce sources of danger in road traffic. Every prevented journey by a driver under the influence of alcohol or drugs means a lower risk of accidents and helps to protect the lives and health of people in the region.