Kitimat RCMP were visible on the roads over the January 1 weekend targeting driver and passenger safety through seatbelt use.
Constable Dave Fahlman said members conducted four road side check stops at a number of locations and times during the weekend.
And he reported that overall compliance was very good with the vast majority of both drivers and passengers wearing their seatbelts and all children were properly and safely secured.
“Unfortunately for a number of drivers and passengers, not everyone was thinking of their safety this weekend,” Fahlman said, adding police issued seven violation tickets for failure to wear a seatbelt.
With each seatbelt offence carrying a fine of $167, he noted being caught not wearing your seatbelt is costly.
However, Fahlman emphasized, the consequences of being involved in an accident while not wearing your seatbelt could be fatal.
ICBC statistics show the correct use of lap/shoulder belts reduces the risk of death to front seat occupants by 45 per cent and the risk of moderate to critical injury by 50 per cent.
He therefore urged everyone to “be smart, be safe - buckle up.”