The Sarnia Police Service (SPS) is doing its part to combat impaired driving this holiday season, and is amplifying the message with upcoming new years celebrations.
Officers have been out on the roads throughout the holiday season, targeting drunk and aggressive drivers through RIDE programs.
Deputy Police Chief Michael Van Sickle said they've been a bit more covert than in years past. He said they're concentrating efforts on areas where impaired drivers may be coming from.
"Throughout the course of the holidays, they are going to be sporadic and at different times," said Van Sickle. "We're going to utilize various strategies. Typically, what you'll see in the Festive RIDE Program is high visibility in major thoroughfares. That's important to ensure that operators of vehicles know the police are out there and we're looking to reduce impaired driving."
Van Sickle said it's imperative to plan ahead if you're going to be drinking on New Year's Eve.
"Do not take the risk, plan ahead and have a mode of transportation if you're going to be indulging on that night," he said. "Take advantage of the busses and of ride shares. It's not worth the risk to operate your vehicle."
Van Sickle said the weather can be very unpredictable.
"The roads can become dangerous because of the conditions, ensure that you know what's happening and plan accordingly," said Van Sickle. "Maybe plan on staying wherever it is you're going to go and make sure that's an option for you."
When it comes to walking, we're encouraged to walk in a group.
That way, if someone falls and gets hurt there's someone there to help.
