Almost 30 people have been arrested for drinking and driving since the police launched their Christmas crackdown.

And officers are warning of the consequences of a DUI are huge and could potentially change a person’s life forever.

Police are also encouraging people to contact police if they believe a motorist may be behind the wheel after having too much to drink.

Inspector Adrian Barnett said hefty fines and driving bans are not the only problems associated with drinking and driving.

He said: “A conviction for drink driving could cost you much more than losing your licence or a fine.

“If you have to drive as part of your job, you may end up losing that job, being unable to pay bills and ultimately you may not be able to pay your mortgage to keep a roof over the head of your family.

“So, if the thought of injuring or killing yourself, or someone else, is not enough to stop you from getting behind the wheel, think of the long term financial impact your actions could have on your loved ones.”

Since launching Operation Christmas Cracker, which has seen a series of Island-wide road blocks and random stop checks, 28 people have been caught.

In the early hours of Saturday morning a man was trapped inside his burning vehicle after crashing into a pole on Cayman Brac. After he was released from the car he was arrested for DUI.

Inspector Barnett added: “The RCIPS will continue to aggressively target drink drivers over the coming weeks. Road blocks and random stop checks will be commonplace.

“So, don’t gamble with your life or your financial security. If you plan to drink, designate a driver or take a taxi.”

While police accept the public transport system in Cayman doesn’t provide many alternatives ways of getting home late at night, they say it is up to drivers to find a way home.

A spokeswoman added: “We appreciate that the public transport system may not be as widespread as some people would like, but the ultimate responsibility is on drivers to make sure that they do not drink and drive.

“There are a number of routes to get home, either designate a driver, use a taxi or utilise the transport provided by the NDC.”

Anyone who wishes to pass information to the police about drunk drivers should contact the police.