You may have noticed an increased presence of roadside checks by police officers.  That’s because both the OPP and municipal police in many communities have started their festive RIDE program.  The checkpoints are to get drunk drivers off the road.  The RIDE program will run into January.  If you’re drinking, make sure you have a designated driver who can get you home in one piece or pay for a taxi.  And police add if members of the public see drunk drivers, call 911.