The Sarnia Police Service (SPS) is kicking off its participation in the Festive RIDE (Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere) Campaign, an annual Ontario-wide initiative aimed at keeping impaired drivers off the road during the holiday season. This year's campaign will begin in early December and run into January 2025.
Driving while impaired by alcohol, other drugs, or both remains a leading contributor to motor vehicle deaths and injuries in Canada. Impaired driving offences carry stiff criminal sanctions, including fines, driving prohibitions, and incarceration, with penalties escalating for repeat offenders.
The best way to avoid impaired driving is to plan ahead. If you plan to consume alcohol or drugs, arrange for a designated driver, use public transit, call a friend or family member for a ride, or consider a taxi or ride-share service. If you're unable to find a safe ride, consider staying overnight. Don’t take a chance behind the wheel.
During the Festive RIDE campaign, SPS officers will conduct a variety of RIDE initiatives, including spot checks, mobile stops, and increased use of Mandatory Alcohol Screening. The initiative uses a data-driven approach to identify high-risk areas and ensure impaired drivers are removed from the road.
The Sarnia Police Service is proud to partner with MADD Canada to raise awareness and strengthen efforts in the fight against impaired driving through the Festive RIDE campaign. This collaboration plays a vital role in educating the public and ensuring safer roads for all.
If you suspect someone is driving while impaired, please call 911 immediately. Together, we can help keep Sarnia’s roads safe for everyone.
Mandatory Alcohol Screening authorizes police to demand a breath sample from any driver lawfully pulled over. It greatly increases the number of drivers screened for impairment, resulting in more impaired drivers being detected. Equally important, it greatly increases the perception that if you drive impaired, the chance of getting caught is high. – MADD Canada