NEW RELEASE
ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE
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BLIND RIVER, ON - The East Algoma Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has started their summer traffic campaign that began on June 24 and ends on July 2, 2023. Warmer weather and longer days mean more people will be getting out and enjoying outdoor activities on our highways, waterways, trails and Provincial Parks.
This week and upcoming weekend the OPP will be focussing on aggressive driving along with other "Big Four" offences which include: alcohol/drug - impaired driving, speeding, distracted driving and lack of occupant restraint (seatbelts). These high-risk behaviours continue to be contributing factors in many preventable tragedies.
It's important to know that impaired operation of a vessel on water or an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) on a trail, carries the same fines and penalties as a vehicle on a highway. Also, "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 and wear it every time you are out on the water, regardless of whether you are an avid paddler or powerboat enthusiast.
Slow down, buckle up, wear your lifejackets/helmets and enjoy your planned activities by arriving at your destination safely.
Should you observe a suspected impaired driver, please call 911 or contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).
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