Photo: RCMP

Police remind drivers to slow down and be safe this Canada Day long weekend.

“With the start of summer holidays and the influx of tourists, we’re starting to see an increase in the volume of traffic on our roads, including RVs, travel trailers, motorcycles and boat trailers,” says North Okanagan RCMP spokesperson Const. Chris Terleski.

“We're still pulling excessive speeders off the road, some as high as 74 km/h above the limit. Avoid the temptation to hit the throttle and obey the posted speed limits.”

Terleski says road safety affects everyone, and drivers should plan for extra time to get to their destination.

“Leave devices alone and pay attention to the road at all times. Exercise patience and remember that speeding and other forms of aggressive driving can have fatal consequences,” Terleski said.

Some people may also be indulging in recreational substances this weekend, and police urge everyone not to drive if they are impaired.

“Make the responsible choice and do not get behind the wheel of a vehicle. Ensure you have a safe ride home. Impaired driving and the tragedies that are associated to it are always preventable,” Terleski said in a press release.

“Officers will be out patrolling this long weekend and throughout the summer, and are committed to ensuring safety of roadways in our communities.”