Operation Red Nose Prince George officially launched its 2012 campaign Tuesday.
"Party-goers during the holiday season have a number of options available to them home safely during the holiday season," said Operation Red Nose spokesperson Andrea Johnson. "We just want them to know that they can choose Operation Red Nose."
Going into its 15th season in Prince George, Operation Red Nose is a free, confidential designated driving service organized by the Rotary Club of Prince George Nechako in partnership with the RCMP and ICBC.
The first night of service begins Friday, Nov. 30 and continues nine nights, Dec. 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22 and New Year's Eve.
Relying on volunteer road teams of three, the service not only allows party-goers get themselves home safely, but their vehicles too. It's available to anyone who does not feel fit to drive their own vehicle home.
Johnson said about 300 volunteers are needed and so far 116 have signed up.
To apply, go online to www.ornpg.ca and print off an application form, fill it out and drop it off at the Community Policing office on 5th and Brunswick.
To be eligible, volunteers must be 19 years old, have a valid driver's license and fill out the required criminal record check forms that are included in their application.
Volunteers can be designated drivers, navigators and operate phones out of Operation Red Nose headquarters. On average, about 15 teams of three will be on call each night of service, working from 8 p.m. to 3 a.m.
"If you like late nights, meeting new people and contributing to the road safety of your community, then you should consider volunteering for Operation Red Nose," Johnson said. "We're encouraging sports organizations, community groups and businesses to come and spend a night volunteering with us and have a great time."
In 2011, 247 volunteers provided 1,047 safe rides home in Prince George. In 2010, 300 volunteers provided a record 1,123 rides home.
