Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) in Essex County have joined their Windsor-Essex counterparts in emphasizing the importance of safe driving this holiday season.
The OPP held a media event on Tuesday to remind residents of the importance of driving sober, with the Festive RIDE (Reduce Impaired Drivers Everywhere) program, which was launched in mid-November.
Among those attending were the OPP, Essex-Windsor EMS, Lakeshore Fire and Rescue, Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy, and local MADD Canada Community Leader Chaouki Hamka.
Each of them discussed the consequences that come with impaired driving and encouraged those who plan to celebrate excessively to have an alternative way to get home, such as designating a sober driver, calling a taxi or Uber, using public transit, or spending the night where you plan to celebrate.
The OPP say some drivers are unfortunately not getting the message. As of November 16, OPP officers responded to 67 alcohol or drug-related collisions.
"The Essex County OPP remains committed to protecting roadways from alcohol and drug-impaired drivers," read a release from the OPP. "Community members are encouraged to do their part this season, never drive after drinking or using drugs, and step in if someone else is about to get behind the wheel while impaired."
Drivers are also encouraged to call 911 if they see a driver on the roads that they suspect may be impaired.
