In Kotka, the victims of drunk drivers are remembered.

6.11.2025 | In the second week of November, the national week for preventive substance work is observed.
This year, the City of Kotka also remembers the people who died as victims of drunk drivers with a traditional candle tribute on 6 November at all three city squares: Kauppatori, Karhula Square, and Karhuvuori Square.

In 2024, 36 people died and 332 were injured in drunk-driving accidents on the country’s roads (30 people in 2023 and 369 injured in 2023). In fatal drunk-driving accidents, the driver usually dies, but the share of passengers or other bystanders among the fatalities is about a quarter (27% in 2024). In the Kymenlaakso region, 9% of all drunk drivers were young people under 21 years old.

Memorial candles will be lit on the three squares between 14:30 and 16:30 and will burn until the evening. Residents also have the opportunity to bring their own memorial candles if the matter personally affects them.

The candle tribute is organized by the City of Kotka’s Wellbeing and Employment Division and the Kotka Road Safety Working Group.