Police cracking down on impaired driving during the holidays
Posted Dec 24, 2025 05:41:29 AM.
Last Updated Dec 24, 2025 02:33:57 PM.
It’s the time of year for holiday celebrations, and some festive drinks can be a great way to celebrate the season. But regional police are out with a reminder that if you chose to consume alcohol, you need to find an alternate way home.
The Waterloo Regional Police Service Festive R.I.D.E. Program began in late November and continues until the new year, with stationary stops and patrolling stops to find impaired drivers.
“A focus for people, if they’re heading out, have a plan, have another alternative, enjoy yourselves, of course, but please be conscious of impaired driving,” Sgt. Scott Griffiths of the Waterloo Regional Police Service, said.
Griffiths noted that impaired driving charges are up year-over-year in Waterloo Region, adding that the statistics tend to spike during holidays.
“We have alternatives, we have things you can do to avoid drinking and driving,” he said. “It has an incredible impact on victims and families of victims, and it is an avoidable crime.”
Regional police are asking the public to avoid driving after consuming alcohol or drugs, plan ahead by arranging a designated driver or using public transportation, offer a sober ride to friends or family who are impaired, report any suspected impaired driving to police by calling 911, and enjoy responsibly.
