This weekend in Winnipeg launched a new program to identify drivers who use cannabis or cocaine, using modern detectors Drager DrugTest 5000. In the process of preparation, the police service has acquired - and is currently engaged in training officers - new mobile devices for drug screening.
According to the information on the manufacturer’s website, Drager DrugTest 5000 uses oral fluid to test seven types of the most commonly used drugs. The police will use it to test for cannabis and cocaine.
Drager uses a swab moistened in the mouth to analyze substances on the spot, offering an alternative to collecting urine or blood samples, according to the instrument manual.
The police service bought seven such testers for $ 5000 each and brought them to the provinces on Saturday, December 1st. They will be used along with standard breath testers to determine alcohol. In addition, the police will use other drug screening equipment as additional tools to identify drivers affected by cannabis or cocaine.
“Our message is simple: if you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, don't get behind the wheel,” said Konst. Stefan Fontaine, Program Coordinator of Winnipeg Police Service. “The Winnipeg Police Service would like the holiday season to pass safely and in a pleasant mood for everyone.”
The program will work every day throughout December.