The holiday season's flagship safe ride service, Operation Nez Rouge, launched its 2025 campaign with significant impact in Montreal. The volunteer-driven initiative provided more than 1,800 rides to residents during its opening weekend, which began on Friday, November 28, 2025.
A Strong Start to the Holiday Season
Operation Nez Rouge, known for its red-nosed volunteers who provide free rides home for drivers who have been drinking or feel unfit to drive, swung into action as the festive period ramped up. The first weekend of operation demonstrated a clear and continued public need for the service. The organization's volunteers work tirelessly to ensure party-goers and holiday revelers get home safely, thereby directly preventing potential incidents of impaired driving on Montreal's roads.
How the Service Operates
The model is straightforward yet effective. A person who has consumed alcohol or is otherwise unable to drive safely can call Operation Nez Rouge. A team of two volunteers arrives at the location: one volunteer drives the person and their vehicle safely home, while the other follows in an escort car. This service not only protects the individual but also safeguards the entire community by removing potentially dangerous drivers from the streets. The 1,800 rides provided represent over 1,800 potential impaired driving situations that were proactively avoided.
Community Impact and Ongoing Mission
The successful first weekend underscores the vital role Operation Nez Rouge plays in public safety during a time of year associated with increased social gatherings. The figure of 1,800 rides sets a positive tone for the rest of the campaign, which typically runs through the New Year. It highlights a strong community commitment to safety and mutual care. The service relies entirely on dedicated volunteers and public donations to operate, making this strong start a testament to Montreal's civic spirit. As the holiday season continues, the organization expects to provide thousands more safe journeys home, reinforcing its core message: planning a safe ride is an essential part of any celebration.
