Anywhere Anytime

That’s what drivers can expect with Festive RIDE stops in our area.   

The North Bay Police Service, Ontario Provincial Police, Anishinabek Police Service and Military Police held a joint-forces RIDE stop at Wasi Corners Wednesday to officially launch the campaign.  

They’re promoting safe driving during the holidays while raising awareness about the risks of impaired driving.  

“We’re going to have more officers dedicated to RIDE programs throughout the season,” says Jeff Warner, Inspector of Operations with the North Bay Police Service. “We’ve actually increased our presence on the roadways throughout the year, but definitely throughout the festive season.”  

Warner says alcohol-related impaired charges have dropped slightly while drug-impaired charges are up this year compared to last.  

The OPP, meantime, says both stats are up. 

“What we’ve observed and identified through analytics is that the trends are continuing to increase, with respect to impaired driving, both alcohol and drug related,” says Inspector William McMullen, North Bay OPP. 

He adds drivers will see their officers conducting RIDE checks throughout the North Bay Detachment area, which includes Callander, East Ferris, Mattawa, Powassan and Port Loring. 

“Specifically, during the Festive RIDE program, every platoon that’s operating is expecting to do 1-3 RIDEs per shift,” says McMullen. “Potentially we’re looking at anywhere from four to six RIDEs per 24-hour period for both platoons working on that specific day.” 

Police say if you’re going to drink alcohol or take drugs, plan ahead by having a designated driver, use public transit, call a friend, family member, taxi or ride share, or stay overnight.

Festive RIDE started Nov. 21 and continues until New Year’s Day.