RIDE programs kick off for the holiday seaon in Ontario

Durham Regional Police and the OPP joined MADD Durham Friday in support of Project Red Ribbon and to officially kick off the 2025 Festive RIDE campaign.

Over the next six weeks, the DRPS and OPP RIDE teams will be out across Durham Region ensuring roadways are safe. Last year’s campaign saw a total of 16,227 vehicles stopped, with 105 drivers charged with drinking and driving offences – an increase in the number of impaired drivers from 2024 where 12,682 vehicles were stopped and 87 charged.

Durham Police Chief Peter Moreira said he is “disheartened” that campaigns like RIDE are still required. “The fact that RIDE remains necessary means some people continue to make the dangerous and selfish choice to drive impaired,” Moreira said.

So far this year, DRPS has laid 629 impaired driving charges, nearly identical to last year’s total of 638. “What’s especially concerning,” Moreira said, “is that 16 per cent have a prior impaired driving charge. These are repeat offenders who continue to put lives at risk.”

DRPS’ RIDE team lead Sgt. Greg Carroll said his team will be out on the roads using a “strategic, data-driven approach” to help keep the community safe.

“But keeping our roadways safe is not something DRPS can do alone. We’re asking everyone to do their part. If you see something, say something. Take personal responsibility when it comes to driving and plan ahead. Whether it’s arranging a designated driver, using Durham Transit, or calling a cab or rideshare, there are always safer options. And if you’re hosting a party, please make sure your guests have a sober ride home.”

If you see a driver, you suspect is impaired, please call 9-1-1 to report it to police; note the vehicle’s colour, make and model, licence plate, and direction of travel, and provide it to the operator. The call you make could save a life, Caroll added.

“Impaired driving puts lives at risk, and our government is committed to doing everything we can to protect Ontario’s families and communities,” said Ontario Solicitor General Michael Kerzner. “We are proud to support the Durham Regional Police Service through the RIDE Grant Program as they launch this year’s Festive RIDE campaign. Their dedication to enforcement, education, and prevention will save lives and keep Durham safe.”

The OPP Highway Safety Division asked motorists in a message on social media to “never drive impaired” this holiday season. “At RIDE programs, slow down for officers and watch for their directions. Let’s keep our roads safe together.”

The holiday season remains a busy time on the region’s roadways and a time of high risk for impaired driving. MADD Durham Region, which launched its annual Project Red Ribbon campaign October 30 is urging people to take a few minutes to arrange transportation home if they are going to be indulging in alcohol.

For more information on MADD Durham Region’s Project Red Ribbon campaign visit, MADDChapters.ca/Durham or follow them on social media @MADDDurham.