The Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) is joining police services across Ontario in the annual Festive RIDE (Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere) Campaign, a province-wide initiative focused on reducing impaired driving during the holiday season.

The campaign runs from November 20, 2025, to January 1, 2026. WRPS officers will conduct RIDE programs and mobile checks throughout Waterloo Region to detect and stop drivers impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both.

Driving while impaired remains one of the leading causes of serious collisions and criminal fatalities in Canada. While alcohol-impaired driving has declined over time, drug-impaired driving incidents have increased, and driving after cannabis use is now an emerging concern - particularly among younger drivers.

“The holidays should be a time of celebration, not tragedy,” said Staff Sergeant Scott Griffiths of WRPS’ Traffic Services Unit. “If you’re planning to enjoy festive gatherings, make sure you also plan a safe way home. Choosing not to drive impaired is the best gift you can give to yourself and others this season.”

Community members can help keep roads safe by:

• Never driving after consuming alcohol or drugs, and ensuring others do not drive impaired.
• Planning ahead by arranging a designated driver or using public transportation.
• Offering a sober ride to friends or family who have been drinking or using drugs.
• Reporting suspected impaired drivers by calling 9-1-1.
• Enjoying responsibly.

Impaired driving offences carry severe penalties, including fines, driving prohibitions, and possible incarceration. The safest choice is simple: don’t drive impaired.

For more information on Ontario’s impaired driving laws, visit www.ontario.ca/impaired-driving.