WATCH ABOVE: Mounties are hoping to keep this weekend safe and they’re putting more sheriffs out to target dangerous drivers. Sarah Offin reports.
EDMONTON – It’s the unofficial kickoff to summer for many Albertans: the May long weekend. Whether it’s by car, motorcycle or RV, people across the province will hit the road for a weekend away, and before they do, the RCMP has a reminder for drivers.
“Our focus for the weekend will be to encourage Albertans to buckle up, slow down, put the cell phone away and enjoy the ride into summer,” said RCMP Superintendent Howard Eaton.
Traffic enforcement will be ramped up this weekend, with officers focused on impaired drivers, distracted drivers, speeders and seat belt compliance.
“We want people to get where they are going, enjoy their time there, and get back home again – without collecting speeding tickets or impaired driving charges along the way,” said Eaton.
With many people headed out camping this Victoria Day weekend, police will also be on patrol in provincial parks and wilderness areas. Campfire safety, drinking in public and ATV driver safety will be on officers’ radar.
“Everyone knows that drinking and driving is a no go,” said Eaton.
“They also need to realize that drinking too much in any setting can be dangerous – especially when campfires, boats and ATVs are involved.”
READ MORE: ATV injury data in Alberta paints ‘shocking picture’: study
The ramped up enforcement coincides with Canada Road Safety Week, which runs May 12 to 18. The annual initiative aims to make Canada’s roads the safest in the world.
To check the road conditions before you leave the house, visit Alberta 511’s website.
In addition, Alberta is bolstering the enforcement of laws on public lands along the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains.
The government says starting this weekend, 21 conservation officers and park rangers will be posted to three regions, including Pincher Creek, Kananaskis and Rocky Mountain House.
Alberta Environment spokesman Ryan Heise says they will be working to prevent ATV operators from damaging the land and ensuring that campers clean up their garbage.
They will also be working with police to look for firearms and liquor infractions.
Heise says Albertans have the right to use public lands, but they also have the responsibility to use it properly, safely and respectfully.
RCMP have said more enforcement of off-highway vehicles is needed in the backcountry to prevent damage to the environment and other illegal behaviour.
With files from The Canadian Press.
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