This holiday season may look a little different than in years past, but the message around impaired driving remains the same – it will not be tolerated on our roads. Our Festive R.I.D.E. team will be out in the community over the next eight weeks making sure our roadways are safe.
COVID-19 has brought about many changes and for the safety of everyone, officers will be maintaining social distance and wearing PPE during R.I.D.E. stops. We are reminding motorists that if you are celebrating this holiday season, make sure you make arrangements if you plan on consuming alcohol or cannabis.
Chief Todd Rollauer helped kick-off a modified Festive R.I.D.E. launch in Whitby this week and had a message for motorists. “I’m asking you to make smart choices, arrange for alternative means to get home, please do not drive impaired, be responsible, and do your part to keep our roadways safe this holiday season. If you believe you see an impaired driver, please call 9-1-1.”
Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) also launched its annual “Project Red Ribbon” campaign to raise awareness about making responsible choices to prevent tragedies on our roads during the holidays.
“Even though the usual parties and celebrations may be different this year, the holiday season is still a busy time on our roads with a high risk for impaired driving,” said MADD Durham Chapter President Trisha Dosaj Makarov. “Our red ribbon is a symbol of the importance of always driving sober. We’re urging people to take a few minutes to plan ahead. If you’re going to be consuming alcohol, cannabis or other drugs, leave the car at home.”
If you see a driver you suspect is impaired, please call 9-1-1 to report it to police; the call you make could save a life. DRPS wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday season!
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