The Ontario Provincial Police are urging people to prioritize safety on roads, trails and waterways ahead of the Labour Day long weekend. OPP statistics show Labour Day weekends have produced more fatalities than any other long weekend over the last decade, with 69 collisions and 76 deaths since 2015. Lambton OPP Community Engagement Officer Tyler Campbell warned swimmers and boaters to never swim alone and to wear a life-jacket rather than merely have one nearby, and he advised checking weather and water conditions and telling someone your plans. Campbell also urged motorists to drive carefully during one of the busiest long weekends for area roads, noting speeding, impaired driving, driver inattention and lack of seatbelt use remain leading causes of fatal crashes. The OPP reminded the public that impaired boating is a criminal offence that can lead to licence suspension, vehicle impoundment and court costs, and asked everyone to be vigilant as children return to school after the holiday.
