Regina police trade ticket books for windshield washer fluid

REGINA – Some drivers pulled over by the police on Friday got a surprise: free windshield washer fluid.

“What we’re trying to do is educate motorists on keeping their windows clean,” said Const. Curtis Warnar, who works in the police department’s Traffic Safety Unit.

Warnar, along with another officer, stopped dirty cars throughout the city, handing over a jug of windshield washer fluid and a pamphlet about the campaign.

The campaign, called Operation Wiper Drive, is a first for the Regina Police Service. The idea was borrowed from an Ontario police department that ran a similar campaign.

The warming weather has resulted in slushy roads and, subsequently, dirty cars.

Warnar said sightlines between pedestrians and drivers is important to keep unobstructed, which means keeping front, side, and rear windows clear.

Obstructing the view of a licence can also result in a $150 fine.

In total, 52 jugs of washer fluid were given out for the campaign.

“I had one lady say this morning that it was very sweet of me to do that, and then she said, ‘Thank you’,” said Warnar. “It’s an opportunity for us to build relationships with the public in a positive light.”