The long drive north for the Victoria Day long weekend is underway and provincial police are keeping a close eye on drivers.

While on patrol on Thursday, OPP Sgt. Kerry Schmidt quickly spotted a trailer that had lost its ramp on Highway 400.

A closer look at the trailer led to the discovery of improperly secure lumber, chainsaws and gasoline. The driver also didn't know his left signal light was out. 

These are exactly the kinds of hazards police are watching for this weekend.

“We're looking for high risk driving; distracted, aggressive, seatbelt use, impaired drivers,” says Schmidt

Officers want people to understand that even one small fender bender on a long weekend can have a giant ripple effect.

“It only takes a very small incident to cause congestion and that congestion can last for hours,” says Schmidt.

To help avoid those fender benders, police recommend leaving a good amount of room between vehicles; about three seconds between each vehicle.