OPP ready to use all available resources for upcoming May long weekend

ORILLIA, ON, May 18 /CNW/ - The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) will use all its available resources and personnel this Victoria Day weekend to ensure that Ontario's highways, trails and waterways remain amongst the safest in the world.

"This weekend traditionally kicks off the summer driving season and we expect to see an increase in traffic", said OPP Chief Superintendent Bill Grodzinski, Commander of the Highway Safety Division. "Safety on the highways, waterways and trails is not only a concern for the OPP but for all citizens of Ontario and our visitors. The OPP aircraft will assist officers on the ground, watching for aggressive drivers and speeders".

As in previous years, the OPP will be working with the Ontario Ministry of Transportation enforcement officers to ensure that vehicles are safe, loads are secure and towing attachments are properly installed.

OPP Commissioner Julian Fantino supports the initiative. "Enforcement is proven to reduce injuries and save lives on Ontario's highways, trails and waterways", said Fantino. "Our efforts are focused on it 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The increase in travel of the May long weekend gives our officers an excellent opportunity to remind everyone of safe driving practices".

This week is also the beginning of Safe Boating Awareness Week and the OPP Marine Unit will be out on the waterways to help prevent drowning and other incidents on Ontario waterways this long weekend. Remember to wear a certified personal flotation device and don't drink and boat.

Last year, over the Victoria Day weekend, 2 people were killed in 2 separate collisions on OPP patrolled roads and no watercraft or ATV fatalities reported.

For further information: Contacts by OPP Region: Highway Safety Division: Sergeant Dave Woodford, Phone: [phone]; Central Region: Constable Peter Leon, Phone: [phone]; East Region: Sergeant Kristine Rae, Phone: [phone]; Northeast Region: Sergeant Major Mary Lawes, Phone: [phone]; Northwest Region: Sergeant Shelley Garr, Phone: [phone]; West Region: Sergeant Dave Rektor, Phone: [phone]