Police Kick Off Festive RIDE Program
Listen to this articleThe Guelph Police Service and Wellington County OPP held a joint media event Thursday morning to officially launch the Festive RIDE campaign.
The campaign, which promotes traffic enforcement while raising awareness of the dangers of impaired driving, runs every year from mid-November until early January. Motorists can expect to see increased RIDE (Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere) spot checks during this time period.
Driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs continues to be the most prominent factor in serious road collisions in Canada. RIDE spot checks assist with enforcement, but also are a visible reminder to motorists not to drive while impaired.
“Police services across the country are committed to eliminating the trauma caused by impaired driving,” said Sgt. Shawn Dunsmoor of the Guelph Police Service Traffic Unit. “This is true all year, but especially during special times like the holiday season when we typically see an increase in these types of criminal offences. If you’re going to be drinking or using drugs, please ensure you have a safe ride home and don’t get behind the wheel.”
In 2022, Guelph Police Service officers laid 249 criminal impaired driving charges related to 231 incidents. So far this year, 200 charges have been laid related to 173 incidents. Charges to date in 2023 are trending slightly ahead of a year ago.
Members of the community are encouraged to contribute to the safety of all users by following these simple tips:
- Plan ahead and arrange and a designated driver or the use of public transit, taxis or rideshare services
- Offer a sober ride to a friend or loved one who had been drinking or using drugs
- Call 911 immediately if you suspect an impaired driver
- Enjoy responsibly
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