Richmond RCMP and MADD Metro Vancouver urge drivers to plan ahead this holiday season

Richmond

2024-11-28 13:19 PST

Richmond RCMP and Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Metro Vancouver joined forces today to stress the importance of making safe choices and preventing impaired driving. The event, held at the Richmond RCMP main detachment, marks the launch of Project Red Ribbon in Richmond, encouraging residents to commit to sober driving during the busy holiday season.

Superintendent Julie Drotar, Acting Officer in Charge of Richmond RCMP, and MADD Metro Vancouver representative Bob Rorison delivered powerful messages about the devastating consequences of impaired driving and steps everyone can take to make Richmond’s roads safer. Representatives from ICBC were also in attendance to provide further insights into road safety initiatives.

Quote from Superintendent Julie Drotar, Acting Officer in Charge of Richmond RCMP:

Impaired driving is a choice by all, and it’s one with life-altering consequences. With the holiday season fast approaching, we’re asking everyone to plan ahead to ensure a safe ride home. This important decision can save lives and prevent serious injury and heartbreak.

Quote from Bob Rorison, MADD Metro Vancouver representative:

The tragic deaths and devastating injuries caused by impaired driving are entirely preventable. That is why we host our Project Red Ribbon campaign every year. We want to engage people in the effort to prevent impaired driving so that no one has to face the grief and heartbreak that my family has faced.

About Bob Rorison

In June 1994, Bob was involved in a crash caused by an impaired driver. The collision caused injuries and financial loss that changed his life. Bob has been a dedicated MADD volunteer since 2000, serving in multiple roles including Chapter President and Campaign Chairperson for Project Red Ribbon. Bob’s career has been in the field of aircraft maintenance, in which he owned a business performing maintenance on aircraft ranging from flying school aircraft to regional airlines. He has also been an instructor at a major BC College, training people in aircraft maintenance and repair. Although the crash interrupted his business he was able to retrain as an instructor and keep his career going in the aircraft maintenance field.

Tips for a safe ride home

Richmond RCMP offers these tips to prevent impaired driving:

1. Plan ahead: Decide how you’ll get home before you head out.
2. Use a designated driver: Choose someone who will remain sober to drive everyone home safely.
3. Take public transit: Research routes and schedules ahead of time to ensure a smooth trip home.
4. Call a taxi or ride-hailing service: Leave your car at home and let a professional take you home.
5. Stay overnight: If possible, stay at a friend’s place or book accommodations nearby.

Remember: impaired driving not only risks your life but endangers others on the road.

Event highlights

The event also paid tribute to Jacob Simmons, a young cyclist whose life was tragically cut short by an impaired driver. Jacob is featured in this year’s Project Red Ribbon campaign, which runs until January 6, 2025. Red ribbons, distributed during the campaign, serve as a reminder to drive sober and as a tribute to lives lost to impaired driving. Michael van Hemmen, General Manager of Mobility, Uber Canada, and Ryan Clark, KAG Operations Manager also presented.

About MADD Canada

MADD Canada (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) is a national, charitable organization that is committed to stopping impaired driving and supporting the victims of this violent crime. With volunteer-driven groups in close to 100 communities across Canada, MADD Canada aims to offer support service to victims, heighten awareness of the dangers of impaired driving and save lives and prevent injuries on our roads. To learn more, visit www.madd.ca.

About Richmond RCMP

Richmond RCMP is dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of the Richmond community through proactive policing, community partnerships, and innovative public safety initiatives. Serving Richmond for over 70 years, Richmond RCMP is committed to reducing crime and enhancing quality of life for all residents. Richmond RCMP works collaboratively with community stakeholders to ensure Richmond remains one of the safest cities in Canada.

Released by:

Email: richmond_media@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Website: richmond.rcmp.ca

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