As we head into the long weekend, Nova Scotia RCMP is reminding motorists to drive responsibly.

Each year, police across Canada participate in Operation Impact led by the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police (CACP). The goal of the campaign is to promote safe driving and reduce the four most significant factors causing serious and fatal collisions: impaired driving, distracted driving, aggressive driving, and not wearing a seatbelt or wearing one incorrectly.

The theme this year is “Safety Doesn’t Happen By Accident”, which emphasizes the role each of us has in keeping our roads and highways safe. This weekend as you head out to enjoy Thanksgiving dinner, outdoor activities or to take in the fall colours, remember:

·         Drive at or below the speed limit

·         Keep a safe distance from other vehicles

·         Buckle up – it could save your life

·         Keep your phone out of reach – don’t text and drive

·         If you consume alcohol or cannabis, don’t drive        

If you believe someone is driving impaired or is a threat to road safety, call 911 as soon as it’s safe to do so. Try to provide as much information about the vehicle as possible (make, model, license plate), the driver (physical description) and the vehicle’s direction of travel.