This Victoria Day long weekend will likely look very different from past years, but the RCMP are taking a business as usual approach.

Normally the May Long Weekend is the kickoff to camping season in Alberta, but with Provincial campgrounds closed until June, it’s likely there will be fewer people heading out on the roads.

Private campgrounds and backcountry camping is allowed, but must adhere to public health orders from the Province including social distancing guidelines and gatherings of no more than 15 people.

RCMP say they are preparing for business as usual not knowing exactly what it will look like.

“As always, our Traffic Services members will be on the road promoting safe driving spaces and enforcing laws to help all motorists stay safe while travelling,” said Superintendent Gary Graham, Alberta RCMP Traffic Services. “Changing dangerous habits such as speeding, impaired and distracted driving starts with thinking differently and ‘shifting gears’ about these problematic behaviours.”

The week of May 12-18 is Canada Road Safety Week. Although there is significantly less traffic on Alberta's roads due to restrictions related to COVID-19, RCMP said impaired driving, distracted driving and speeding remain a problem across the province.

“As our province begins to consider reopening, some drivers over the May long weekend may be tempted to relax their attitudes around driving rules, physical distancing and public health orders,” said Superintendent Gary Graham, Alberta RCMP Traffic Services.“There is zero tolerance for unsafe driving behaviours amidst the pandemic.”

Alberta health officials are encouraging people to stay close to home. Dr Deena Hinshaw, Chief Medical Officer of Health for Alberta said despite the majority of the province entering phase one of the relaunch strategy (except Calgary and Brooks) Albertans should continue to limit non-essential travel.

“This long weekend, I am asking Albertans to practise physical distancing and avoid gathering in groups. If visiting summer cottages, respect the health and safety of small communities by planning your trip without stops for gas or food. When outdoors or in public, take all the necessary precautions to protect your health and the health of those around you. Please enjoy the weekend and stay socially connected, but do so as safely and responsibly as possible.”

RCMP say they will be collaborating throughout Canada Road Safety Week and the May long weekend with Alberta Sheriffs, Edmonton Police Service, Calgary Police Service and other law enforcement, along with public health and safety partners to ensure Albertans make the right decisions.