Canada Day (not-so-long) weekend

(Updated) With Canada Day just around the corner, many are asking if this is really the start of a long weekend. July 1 is a statutory holiday, but this year it falls on Tuesday, meaning this weekend is as long as any other. But despite the number of days, Hamilton Police are treating it as if it were one.

The sun’s out and so are people ready to begin the first holiday weekend of the summer. But it’s not a long weekend, like most holiday weekend’s are, and that’s putting a dent in some people’s plans.

“I wish I’d looked ahead and known it was a day off. I have to work Monday, but I have Tuesday off. It kind of breaks up the week, but not the way I’d like to have it,” said one woman.

Canada Day falls on a Tuesday this year, meaning Monday is awkwardly a back to work day for most — except those whose bosses are cutting them a little slack.

“I have Monday and Tuesday off. I feel that it was really nice to have Monday off as well to really make it a long weekend rather than have it broken up like that,” said a man outside enjoying the warm weather.

“It’s an extra long weekend for me. I’m taking the Monday as well so I feel really good about it. But I work for a great employer in downtown Hamilton that’s letting me take that day,” said another man.

Even though it’s a regular two-day weekend, Hamilton Police on both land and water are ramping up their patrols leading up to July 1, their busiest day of the entire year.

“The mounted unit will be primarily deployed in the entertainment district, especially Friday and Saturday evening,” said staff sgt. Phil Fleming of the Hamilton Police.

So far it’s been a deadly year on the roads and waterways with 113 people having been killed on the highway while 11 have died on the water. Police say it’s crucial to wear a lifevest, as an emergency on water is much more dangerous than on land.

“EMS and police are not five minutes away on the water. People really need to take that into account. Every time you step on the water, you need to be prepared because you might be your only help out there,” said const. Marty Bushell of the Hamilton Police marine unit.

A simple safety tip, but one that helps make sure all weekends, whether long or short, can be enjoyed this summer.

Already this year, the number of deaths on provincial roads and waterways has doubled compared to the same time last year. Nine out of the eleven people who died on water weren’t wearing a lifevest, and of the 113 people killed on the roads, speed and distracted driving were a factor in many of those deaths. Police presence will be heightened this weekend to make sure people buckle up and keep safe however they choose to travel.