The August long weekend was remarkable not for what happened, but for what didn't.

According to East Kootenay Traffic Service, the B.C. Day holiday weekend was relatively quiet, with no serious injury or fatal motor vehicle collisions.

There were, however, 16 alcohol related driving offences dealt with by Traffic Services and General Duty Detachments in the East Kootenay, including Cranbrook, Kimberley, the Columbia Valley, the Elk Valley and Creston.

Since the May long weekend, Traffic Services has taken a total of 39 drivers off the roads for alcohol related driving offences.

While there has been five fatal motor vehicle incidents in the East Kootenay this year, overall the number of fatal collisions is less than over the same period in 2011.

To that end, Traffic Services will step up patrols and enforcement for the rest of the summer, targeting impaired driving, seat belt compliance, distracted driving and aggressive driving, with a view to keep roadways safe.

As always, Traffic Services is reminding drivers to take their time. Highways will be busy throughout August. Drive responsibly, defensively, and don't drink and drive.