The Ottawa Police Service launched its annual holiday crackdown on impaired driving with significant force, stopping 1,500 vehicles during the first weekend of the Festive RIDE (Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere) campaign. The initiative, which began in late November, represents a concerted effort by law enforcement and community partners like Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) to keep roads safe during a season known for increased social gatherings.
Weekend Blitz Sends a Clear Message
Officers set up multiple checkpoints across the city from Friday through Sunday, conducting the high volume of stops. While the specific number of charges laid during this initial weekend blitz was not immediately detailed in the preliminary report, the visible police presence is designed as both an enforcement and deterrent measure. The campaign traditionally runs through the New Year, with police vowing a zero-tolerance approach to driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
The campaign's start aligns with increased holiday parties and celebrations. Police officials emphasize that the goal is not just to catch offenders but to prevent tragedies before they happen. Volunteers from MADD are often present at these checkpoints, providing a poignant reminder of the human cost of impaired driving.
A Community-Wide Safety Effort
The Festive RIDE campaign is a cornerstone of seasonal traffic safety in the capital. It involves officers from various divisions and is supported by provincial laws that grant police broad powers to conduct roadside screenings. Drivers can be asked to provide a breath sample at any legally conducted traffic stop during the holiday season, not just at designated RIDE checkpoints.
This early figure of 1,500 stops signals a proactive start to the campaign and underscores the police service's commitment to resource allocation for this priority. The public is reminded to always plan for a safe ride home by using a designated driver, public transit, ride-sharing services, or a taxi.
Looking Ahead to a Safe Season
As the holiday season progresses, Ottawa police indicate that RIDE checks will continue unpredictably at various times and locations throughout the city. The strong opening weekend is intended to set the tone for the coming weeks. Police also encourage citizens to report suspected impaired drivers by calling 911, providing a vehicle description, license plate number, location, and direction of travel.
The collaboration between law enforcement and advocacy groups like MADD highlights a shared community mission: to ensure everyone arrives home safely. The message from Ottawa Police is clear—there is no excuse for impaired driving, and the consequences of a poor decision can last a lifetime.
