According to Winnipeg police, alcohol abuse might be the ‘most taxing and common issue’ cops face on a daily basis. The Addictions Foundation of Manitoba (AFM) says alcohol has moved into the unenviable position as Canada’s worst substance.
In its seventh year, Operation: Dry Water, The Life Saving Society of Manitoba and Manitoba RCMP are urging Manitobans to boat sober this August long weekend.
A report released in 2018 by the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction and the Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research estimated alcohol cost Canadians almost $15 billion per year in terms of lost productivity, justice costs, and more.
Operation: Dry Water is an awareness event, during the August long weekend, to get people thinking about the dangers of being under the influence when they are out there on the water and boating.
The RCMP has announced that they will be conducting patrols all over the province. Chabot says they hope to find families having fun water rather than responding to a tragedy.
Fellow Winnipeggers, please be careful and enjoy the family time or party with friends this long weekend responsibly!