OPP aims for 'fatal free' long weekend

The Ontario Provincial Police is aiming for a "fatal free" Canada Day long weekend as drivers start to flee the city, hit the highway and head for the cottage.

"Traditionally July 1 long weekend is a deadly weekend for us," OPP Chief-Supt. Bill Grodzinski told CBC Thursday.

"Every long weekend people think 'It can't happen to me.' But we often see tragedies."

Fatal drownings and car accidents are commonplace on summer long weekends, as thousands head out of town to escape the sweltering city.

But whether an accident happens at the cottage or on the way there, Grodzinski said following some simple rules can help cottagers stay safe.

"Don't drink and drive, don't drive aggressively and wear your personal flotation device if you're on the water," he said.

The OPP expects heavy traffic volume heading north up Highway 400, and say they will be out in force to catch speeders and intoxicated drivers.

Grodzinski said another common problem on Canada Day long weekend is cottage-bound drivers who get into trouble with their trailers.

"If you're hauling anything, whether it's a boat or stuff for the cottage, you've got to make sure it's secure," he said. "Just one seat cushion, one can, one cooler on the highway and someone swerves to avoid it, you could have a terrible crash."