Despite falling on a Sunday this year, St. Patrick's Day revelers are expected to be out in full force to celebrate the "wearin' o' the green".
Restaurants and bars across southwestern Ontario are expected to be full of customers on Sunday. Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Canada is hoping those who are planning to imbibe will have a plan for a safe ride home.
"When you’re out celebrating St. Patrick’s Day throughout this weekend, please don’t rely on luck to get home safely," said MADD Canada National President Tanya Hansen Pratt. "Take a few minutes ahead of time to plan your sober transportation. It can prevent a tragedy, and a lifetime of grief and heartache for you and those on the road around you."
Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have expressed concern over increased arrests for impaired driving. For example, Essex County had the fourth-highest number of impaired driving charges last year, with 367 offences in 247 incidents.
According to MADD Canada. almost 78,500 federal charges and provincial short-term suspensions are laid for impaired driving each year, averaging about nine charges and short-term suspensions handed out to drivers every hour.
MADD Canada has urged people who plan to celebrate St. Patrick's Day to never drive impaired. Call a taxi, an Uber, or a friend or family member. Public transit is also a safe option, or arranging to spend the night where you're planning to celebrate.
People should also never ride with someone who is impaired and are encouraged to call 911 if they suspect another driver is impaired.
-with files from Adelle Loiselle