Mike Rainone
Hammertime
The official arrival of summer is usually celebrated during the rambunctious and often rowdy May Long weekend, as most people just can’t wait to shed off the ‘winter woes’ and let loose. Whether our fun and frolic may be out camping with the clan, planting the garden, on the golf course and sports fields, or just strolling or biking in the fresh air, we need to try and avoid those pesky squadrons of mosquitoes and no-see-ums. With just over a month of school left for the kids, they are all certainly prepping and striving to get through those final exams and looking forward to summer camps and beach parties, while most families are busy planning their hot and sunny holidays with relatives and friends.
This is always that carefree but hectic time of the year when all of our highways and by-ways are really busy, farm machinery is on the move on all fronts and fields, countless outdoor events have been planned, and everyone is bound and determined to get the most out of the warm and extended hours of light, whether it be at work or at play. With most everything on the move at the same time it is vitally important that we always drive safely and observe and respect the rules of the road, be totally prepared before we head out, and take a little extra time and patience along the way so that we can get to our destination safe and ready to have some fun amongst the rest of the happy-go-lucky millions.
June is also the gala celebration of thousands of feisty young men and women who have successfully completed their Grade 1 to 12 classes and are so looking forward to their High School graduation. We offer our sincere congratulations to each and every grad with hopes that you will enjoy your traditional ‘weekend fling’ in Safe-Grad mode, and then move on with the rest of your lives into a very bright and successful future.
Traffic and camping violations are now much tougher
Every day all over our great province and nation we are hearing that traffic violations and horrific accident statistics are increasing in all areas. As a result our government has greatly increased the fines and given our extremely busy Law Enforcement officials the power to enforce the laws to the fullest and make sure that those who choose to break the law and put others and themselves in danger will face the strict consequences. Here are some of the facts and fines for various offenses.
• Claims for distracted driving accidents have jumped 58 per cent in Alberta over the past two years, which is the biggest increase in the nation. Two years ago our province increased the fine for distracted driving from $172 to $287 with three demerit points. While driving home to Red Deer last week and heading into a very heavy construction zone I witnessed a driver race past the long line of us who were following the 80 km. posted speed, and she was also on her cell phone. What should the fine be for those two combined offenses?
• According to the Criminal Code of Canada ‘cruising and boozing’ on all of our water-ways don’t mix, and offenses are very high for those convicted of operating a boat under the influence of alcohol and drugs. Minimum penalties include: First offense is a minimum fine of $600, second offense is a minimum fine of $600 and at least 14 days in prison, and the third or subsequent offences will bring a minimum fine of $600 and at least 90 days in prison. Other rules also apply for both the boat and the passengers.
• Alberta Fish and Wildlife have also added more personnel to patrol our parks, campgrounds, and forests to heavily enforce the rules and laws that protect our environment, our wildlife, and everyone else who properly and respectfully use and enjoy the countless amenities of our precious and pristine province.
• Fines for speeding convictions have also been increased in April of 2018. They range from $78 to $949, depending on kms. over the speed limit, and could double for infractions in both lanes of construction zones, as well as school or bus zones. Charges could result in a mandatory court appearance, fines, demerits, licence suspension, and possible jail time. Impaired driving or refusal offenses will now include: a minimum charge of $1,000 for the first conviction as well as a one year license suspension and possible jail time in some cases.
I am so sorry to bring on all these gloom and doom statistics and strict warnings at the beginning of our super summer season, but is it not better to be safe and sensible than sorry, and if it might help to protect others and prevent some of these dangerous infractions from being committed, it has served a vital purpose for all of us.
Have some great summer adventures, but please make sure to take along lots of sun-tan lotion and bug spray, and then have a great week, all of you.