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11 June 2010, 06:00 | Updated: 11 June 2010, 06:27
Kent Police and Highways are working on campaigns to stop drink driving during the World Cup
They are starting a campaign to warn about the dangers of getting behind the wheel after having alcohol and say just one drink is too many.
Roads Policing Unit Inspector, Paul Sellwood, said: "Kent Police takes a zero tolerance approach to drink and drug driving and the summer is one of the busiest times of year for us. This is because people socialise more often and for longer during the warm, lighter evenings.
"Drivers prosecuted for drink driving will get a disqualification, criminal record, up to £5,000 fine or a possible prison sentence. But the consequences of a serious collision could be far worse such as the death of a loved one."
Click here to listen to us chatting to Insp Paul Sellwood
Steve Horton, Kent Highway Services' Road Safety Team Leader, said: "Most drink drive crashes happen in the summer months and with this years football tournament presenting many additional opportunities for social drinking, the temptation for drivers to drink could be greater.
"In support of the Kent Police activity, we are launching our education campaign on 11 June to coincide with the start of the tournament. We aim to remind drivers that penalties don't just come in football matches. If you're drinking, substitute the car for an alternative form of transport like a taxi or bus. Don't blow it this summer and fall foul of drinking and driving as it could cost you a penalty; a crash could cost you far more. Is one drink worth the risk?"
Click here to listen to the adverts starting on Heart on 11th June
As part of the campaign there will be posters around the county and beermats and whistles will be handed out before matches.
People dressed as referees will be out in these towns:
12th June Ashford (England game)
18th June Maidstone (England game)
23rd June Canterbury and Tonbridge (England game)
26th June Dartford and Gravesend
3rd July Margate and Ramsgate
Councilor Phil Filmer from Medway has concerns about the impact that the World Cup may have on drink driving this summer. He says: "While we all wish to support our teams, follow their progress and celebrate their successes, drivers must remember that alcohol and drugs can still be in your body the next day."
Drink Driving Facts (from Kent Police):