The Abbotsford Police Department (APD) is promoting and encouraging “family-friendly” celebrations during playoff games for the Vancouver Canucks.
The APD has set up a Twitter hashtag (#NHLinAbby) for people to post comment and pictures about Canuck celebrations in the city.
The first round of the playoffs, with the Canucks taking on the Los Angeles Kings, begins Wednesday. The next game is on Friday.
Following Canuck playoff wins, Abbotsford fans have traditionally gathered along South Fraser Way – in the vicinity of Sevenoaks Shopping Centre – to cheer, display posters and wave flags.
MacDonald said although uniformed and plainclothes officers keep an eye on the festivities, there have not been any major problems in Abbotsford in the past.
“In the last few years, it was demonstrated that we have a family-friendly environment,” he said.
Using social media for this year’s activities shows the enthusiasm and welcoming spirit exhibited in the city, MacDonald added.
In keeping with the community support, the APD has loosened its rules on facial hair and is allowing officers to grow beards during the playoff run.
