2025 Festive R.I.D.E. Campaign Launch

Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) officially kicked off our 2025 Festive R.I.D.E (Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere) campaign today at the DRPS Operations Training Centre in Whitby.

Over the next six weeks, our R.I.D.E team will be out across Durham Region ensuring our roadways are safe. Last year’s R.I.D.E 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.

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

“While I’m pleased to see everyone here today, I’m disheartened that we still need campaigns like this. The fact that R.I.D.E. remains necessary means some people continue to make the dangerous and selfish choice to drive impaired, said Chief Moreira. “So far this year, DRPS has laid 629 impaired driving charges, nearly identical to last year’s total of 638 at this point in time. What’s especially concerning is that 16 per cent have a prior impaired driving charge. These are repeat offenders who continue to put lives at risk.”

DRPS’ R.I.D.E team lead Sgt. Greg Carroll added, "This holiday season, our team will be out on the roads using a strategic, data-driven approach to help keep our 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—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.”

MADD also launched its annual "Project Red Ribbon” campaign on October 30^th at DRPS’ East Division to promote sober driving during the holiday season and remind Canadians about the importance of planning ahead for a sober ride home.

The holiday season remains a busy time on our roadways and a time of high risk for impaired driving. MADD Durham Region is urging people to take a few minutes to plan ahead and arrange a sober ride home. For more information on MADD Durham Region's Project Red Ribbon campaign visit, MADDChapters.ca/Durham or follow them on social media @MADDDurham. 

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. DRPS wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday season!

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