'No family should lose a loved one': Festive RIDE program begins

The Festive RIDE program is underway throughout Ontario. 

The Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP) and Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), were joined by the Minister of Transportation, York Regional Police, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and other road/public safety partners to kick off the provincial campaign.  

OPP and its police partners will make full use of their expertise and sophisticated tools for detecting and investigating alcohol and drug impairment in drivers, according to a media release. 

"No family should lose a loved one in a collision that involves alcohol and/or drugs, especially during the holidays. Driving sober and drug free is critical to preventing road fatalities and injuries. You can help make roads even safer by calling 9-1-1 if you see a suspected impaired driver. Let's work together to make this the safest holiday season yet," said Thomas Carrique, OPP commissioner.

"Ontario has among the safest roads in North America, and we are committed to making them even safer," added Prabmeet Sarkaria, Ontartio's Minister of Transportation. "Whether it's drugs or alcohol, there is no place for impaired driving in Ontario. This holiday season, do your part to help keep our roads safe. Remember to plan ahead - use public transit, take a taxi or ride-share service, or have a designated driver to get you, your family and other drivers on the road home safely." -

The Festive RIDE campaign runs from Nov. 16 to Jan. 1.