(HURON COUNTY, ON) – The Huron County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Detachment Bicycle Patrol Unit has returned to action for the 2013 summer season. This is the second year of existence for the dedicated full- time two member unit. Building on the success of the 2012 season, officers this year are looking forward to another busy and exciting summer. Provincial Constables Jason Sibley and Ron Young are the two assigned members for this season. The Bicycle Patrol Unit is geared up and ready to roll.
High visibility and strict enforcement are two primary objectives for the unit. Officers will be on the lookout for a variety of Highway Traffic Act offences with special focus on intersection related violations and distracted driving offences. A distracted driver talking or texting on a cell phone can expect a $155 ticket when stopped. A driver disobeying a stop sign will be leaving with a $110 fine. Consuming liquor in other than a licensed premise, residence or private place, you are subject to a $125 fine.
The increased street level visibility throughout Huron’s small towns and villages will certainly enhance and strengthen community relationships. The bike unit is also scheduled to appear at several of Huron County’s special events this summer. Officers will be at street festivals, community parades, the Dungannon tractor pull, Goderich Kinsmen Summerfest, The Exeter Rodeo and the Zurich Bean Festival to name a few. Additionally, the Bike Patrol Unit will be assisting at several bicycle safety rodeos in an effort to educate young cyclists.
The Bike Patrol Unit reminds all young cyclists under the age of 18 they are required by law to wear a bicycle helmet. Riders at night are required to have lights and reflectors. Highly reflective clothing should be worn at all times. Be safe and be seen. It certainly pays to be safe in more ways than one. Officers will also be on the lookout for kids following the rules of the road and wearing all of their safety equipment. If spotted, a youngster may receive a reward in the form of a coupon for a free froster drink sponsored by Mac’s and the OPP Positive Ticketing Program.
-Attached Photo – From left to right- Provincial Constable Jason Sibley and Provincial Constable Ron Young