Northeast Region OPP say COVID-19 restrictions are slowly lifting and more people, including children may be outside enjoying the weather.

With that in mind they ask drivers to slow down, drive sober, keep a safe distance between vehicles and drive safely.

A week-long Canada Day traffic initiative is now underway through next Sunday, July 5th.

Police are targeting the ‘big four’ — impaired, inattentive and aggressive driving along with seatbelt usage.

They say these high-risk behaviours account for the majority of motor vehicle collision fatalities.

With summer activities underway, OPP say it’s important to know that impaired operation of a vessel on water or an ATV on a trail, carries the same fines and penalties as a vehicle on the highway.

OPP also say “Lifesaving Equipment” for your vessel starts with your Personal Floatation Device (PFD) which must be of an approved type and appropriate size for each individual on the boat.

Police advise they will be taking a combined approach of education and enforcement during the campaign for this holiday.

Should you observe a suspected impaired driver, police say call 911 or contact the Ontario Provincial Police at 1-888-310-1122.

Those wishing to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).

 

(File photo by station staff)

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