In February, the Golden/Field detachment of the RCMP responded to 237 calls for service, according to detachment commander Sgt. Betty Watson.
Most calls were traffic related, with the RCMP responded to 57 traffic calls.
Thirteen of those calls were traffic related and eight calls were for impaired driving investigations, six of which resulted in immediate roadside prohibitions (IRPS).
IRPs are given if police think you blew a “fail” on a breathalyzer test or on refusal to blow. You can be made to take a responsible driver program, which can cost an additional $930.
The RCMP also responded to two COVID related reports.
The average fine for failing to comply with COVID restrictions is $230 and can range from failure to wear a mask, failing to comply with direction, as well as abusive or belligerent behaviour. Anyone organizing a COVID non-compliant event can be fined up to $2,300.
Local bylaw officers and WorkSafe BC can also be called to report COVID non-compliance.
Additionally, there were 12 property offences and six persons offences, such as assault and threats uttered.
The detachment also took the time this month to acknowledge and celebrate Pink Shirt Day, a national day to take a stand against bullying.
“Pink Shirt Day is a visual reminder to us and encourages dialogue both inside and outside the workplace,” said Sgt. Watson.
“Half the battle be being able to openly talk about it and that is how change happens.”
Sgt. Watson also says that the detachment is busy preparing for the upcoming highway closures as a part of the Kicking Horse Canyon Phase 4 project and are prepared to focus enforcement where and when it is needed in order to keep the roads in Golden and the surrounding area safe.
“We will be working collaboratively with BC RCMP Highway Patrol as well as RCMP in Invermere to ensure we have effective education and enforcement on alternate routes,” said Sgt. Watson.
“We ask the motoring public to be patient, give yourself more time to get to your destination and follow and obey the signage.”
Closures have begun, with single lane closures early in March.
They will ramp up throughout the coming weeks, cumulative in what is now an almost two-month long closure beginning in April.
