Patrolling by boat, bike and boot
With summer in full-swing, Kelowna’s growing resident population and an influx of visitors mean more people are enjoying all that Kelowna has to offer. The City also understands that more people means more resources are needed to enhance community well-being, including a sense of safety.
Four joint RCMP/Bylaw bike teams have patrolled the downtown and surrounding areas since July and will continue into September. Acting as eyes on the street, they ride the “beat” seven days a week. More officers are out patrolling the streets on foot and in cruisers for increased safety. Their efforts are supported by City of Kelowna Safety Education Ambassadors and Downtown Kelowna Association Ambassadors who provide a visible presence and resource if people need assistance.
RCMP and Bylaw bike patrols provide support to the Kelowna RCMP’s General Duty watches and Downtown Enforcement Unit.
“We are committed to reducing crime and recognize that to succeed in keeping Kelowna safe, we need to continue to work with community partners to develop ongoing strategies in prevention, education and treatment,” said Insp. Dale Somerville, RCMP. “Ultimately, we hope that our increased presence by boot, bike and boat will reduce the calls for service and prevent crimes within our community. Additionally, our officers are using our RCMP ‘gator’ utility vehicle to respond and patrol areas accessible only by foot and bicycle.”
City Bylaw and Kelowna RCMP, in partnership with other organizations, work to protect everyone and aim to balance the needs of our residents and the broader community. This means making sure the public feels safe to enjoy our downtown, that criminals are dealt with through enforcement and that those in need of help receive compassionate assistance.
Safety Education Ambassadors are visiting popular outdoor areas in Kelowna including beaches, parks, sports fields and waterfront areas to ensure residents and visitors are practicing safe physical distancing while enjoying public spaces.
On the water, Kelowna RCMP have two boats on Okanagan Lake encouraging safe boating and watching for illegal activity. The RCMP boats also assisted the Uniform Gang Enforcement Team during the B.C. Day long to conduct a number of vessel checks on the lake and at marinas.
In addition to fire response, prevention, inspections and public education programs, the Kelowna Fire Department also plays an important role in community safety by responding to overdose, medical issues and vehicle accidents.
“Through a coordinated approach among enforcement, health and social agencies, combined with the active participation of visitors and residents – especially during the COVID-19 pandemic – we can ensure that our community is a safe place for all to live, work and play,” said Darren Caul, Community Safety Director , City of Kelowna.
To report suspicious activity, please contact the RCMP non-emergency line at 250-762-3300, or call 911 if it’s an emergency.