Essex County OPP officers are joining a province-wide traffic enforcement campaign for Canada Day week, with increased patrols on roadways, waterways, and off-road trails. The campaign, which began June 26 and runs through midnight Sunday, focuses on the “Big Four” causes of fatal collisions: distracted driving, alcohol/drug-impaired driving, speeding/aggressive driving, and lack of seatbelt use.
Full Force on Roads and Water
“Essex County OPP officers will be out in full force this week to monitor traffic flow on our roadways and ensure boating enthusiasts are enjoying the water safely,” officials said in a news release. Police urge patience and safe driving, asking motorists to respect cyclists, farm machinery operators, and pedestrians.
So far this year, 164 people have died in collisions on OPP-patrolled roads, which span more than 130,000 kilometres across Ontario. The top contributing factors remain speeding, impaired driving, distracted driving, and not wearing a seatbelt, according to police.
Waterways and Trails Under Watch
Beyond roads, the OPP monitors nearly 100,000 kilometres of waterways and trails. Boaters, paddlers, and off-roaders are reminded to wear lifejackets or helmets to reduce the risk of serious injury. Police ask anyone who witnesses dangerous driving or suspects an impaired driver to call 911 immediately.
