Festive RIDE program getting underway soon

Drivers are being reminded to always be sober and safe while behind the wheel.

The holiday season is quickly approaching and with it the annual Festive RIDE program.

It kicks off Friday, November 24th, in Perth County with police watching closely to try and keep the roads safe. 

The local program is a joint initiative between Stratford Police and Perth County OPP. 

Stratford Police Constable Darren Fischer says it’s important to know how you’re getting home after your celebrations. 

“If you can plan ahead and have that taxi planned, or that sober driver planned, or that walk home at the end of the night planned as well.”

Fischer adds RIDE stops could pop up anywhere in the area at any time of the day. 

So far in 2023, there have been 53 impaired driving/over 80 occurrences in Perth County, and over 78 impaired driving charges have been laid.

The RIDE program runs until January 1st, 2024.