police cruiser winter2(File photo) Motorists can expect to find Festive RIDE checks happening throughout the area over the next six weeks.

Area police are checking for impaired drivers during the holiday season, with the official launch of the program taking place Friday afternoon.

55 impaired charges have been filed by North Bay Police so far this year.

With just over a month left in 2015, that’s 11 fewer than all of last year.

North Bay Police Chief Paul Cook says “We remind drivers to stay alert and sober when behind the wheel. We encourage the public to help us stop impaired drivers, before they harm themselves or others, by calling 911 if they know or suspect someone is driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.”

While the Festive RIDE program runs until January 3rd, area police run the RIDE program throughout the year.