Festive RIDE program, cottage safety, on the minds of Frontenac OPP

Dec 01, 2021

The Festive RIDE program is now underway in Frontenac County, and Detachment Commander Sgt. Marty McConnel would like to remind residents that they do not have to depend on the RIDE program to help keep the roads safe from impaired drivers.

“It is great to see that last year the Citizen's of Ontario made over 10,000 calls to report erratic drivers. The OPP did not necessarily lay charges in those cases. They may not have been able to intercept them or the drivers may not have been impaired, but those calls helped keep the roads safer. 29 people lost their lives last year in collisions due to alcohol and drugs,” Sgt. McConnel said last Friday in a phone call with the News.

He also wanted to remind people that when an officer OPP stops a car at a RIDE program or for another lawful reason, the mandatory alcohol screening law is in effect and the officer can demand that the operator of the vehicle undergo a sobriety test.

“They do not need a reason any more,” he said.

The Festive RIDE program runs until January 3rd. RIDE stops can be set up at any time of day.

“We are also putting out information at this time for seasonal residents who may be leaving their properties vacant over the winter months,” he said.

The Frontenac OPP recently put out a list of crime prevention tips seasonal property owners.

They include the following: Use quality locks on windows, doors and sheds and make sure they are in good repair before leaving for the season - Close window curtains and blinds and put up shutters - Remove all food and alcohol - Stow away little things like water sports equipment and propane tanks - Take your valuables with you - electronics, personal items and tools - Remove all firearms or weapons - Shut down Wi-Fi - Think about keeping a radio on a talk station as opposed to music - Attempt to make your property look lived in with lamps on timers and having exterior lights with a motion sensor – and finally, get to know your neighbours who have permanent homes in the area and ask if they check the property and keep them up to date if you plan to have maintenance done by a contractor.