OPP out in full force for long weekend

The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) will use all available resources this Victoria Day weekend to ensure that Ontario's highways, trails and waterways remain among the safest in the world.

This weekend traditionally kicks off the summer driving season and the OPP expects to see a significant increase in traffic. The OPP is reminding the public that they will not tolerate any unsafe driving habits and that the OPP plane will be taking to the skies to assist with patrols while keeping an eye from the sky looking for aggressive and speeding drivers.

While patrols are stepped up, drivers should know that OPP officers will be diligent about targeting aggressive driving, impaired driving, seatbelt compliance and distracted driving.

Drivers who do not slow down and move over when passing an emergency vehicle (ambulance/fire/police) on the shoulder of the road endanger emergency responders and where possible, will be stopped and charged.

"Traffic enforcement reduces injuries and save lives and that's what we intend to do,” OPP Commissioner Chris Lewis said, in a press release. “We know that the increase in traffic during the Victoria Day weekend also increases the risks for serious injury or death on our highways, trails and waterways."

The OPP will be working with Ministry of Transportation enforcement officers to ensure that vehicles are safe, loads are secure and that towing equipment is installed and used in compliance with the law.

"Ontario continues to have one of the best road safety records in the world,” Bob Chiarelli, Minister of Transportation, said. “On this busy holiday weekend, I want to remind all Ontarians to drive safe and obey the rules of the road so that you reach your destination safely."

This weekend also marks the beginning of Safe Boating Awareness Week and the OPP marine unit will have a presence on the waterways to help prevent drowning and other incidents on Ontario waterways this weekend.

Remember to wear a certified flotation device and don't drink and boat.

Posted by Arron Pickard