With the holiday season just around the corner, provincial police have launched an annual campaign aimed at ensuring motorists are driving sober.
Huron County and South Bruce Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), were in Clinton on Monday to kick off Project Red Ribbon, a yearly awareness campaign started by MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) that runs from the start of November through the holidays until January 2.
Local officers were joined by volunteers with the Huron-Bruce MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) chapter to help conduct a RIDE (Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere) program and spread awareness about the dangers of alcohol or drug-impaired driving.
“It was great news on both fronts. Officers are happy to report that approximately 200 vehicles passed through the checkpoint, and everyone was found to be complying and driving in a sober condition,” a release from Huron County OPP read.
During the campaign, MADD volunteers from various chapters and communities across Canada distribute thousands of red ribbons and red ribbon car decals for Canadians to display on their vehicles, key chains, purses, briefcases and backpacks.
Huron County OPP Sgt. Russ Nesbitt, who was out in Clinton on Monday helping with the RIDE program, said drivers should expect to see enhanced patrols this year.
“Driving sober is always the right choice. If you choose to drink or use drugs call a taxi, phone a friend, stay the night or have some other plan to get home safely. Please do the right thing and only drive if you are sober,” said Nesbitt.
Huron-Bruce MADD recently celebrated their 27th anniversary as a chapter. More information about the campaign or how to receive a ribbon can be found on the MADD website.
