Extra RCMP resources brought in for Canada Day celebrations in Kelowna – Okanagan | 24CA News
With the lengthy weekend right here, residents and vacationers are flocking to downtown Kelowna for Canada Day celebrations on Saturday.
The annual celebration attracts round 60,000 to the world — an enormous crowd that police say they’re prepared for.
“We’re going to have a lot of extra resources,” mentioned RCMP Const. Mike Della-Paolera.
“There’s going be a command post downtown. We’re going to have extra boats on the water, foot beat on the ground, police officers on bikes and extra police cars out.”
While Kelowna RCMP received’t reveal what number of additional officers shall be on responsibility, they do say individuals will discover a major police presence, including the pressure is prepared for any situation that ought to unfold.
“We always have a plan ready for different events,” mentioned Della-Paolera, “and we modify them, obviously, for Canada Day or any other event downtown.”
Kelowna’s mayor, Tom Dyas, says the town can be prepared, including they’ve additional sources “to make certain that everyone can be as safe as possible.”
The RCMP added that they need individuals to have enjoyable, however to even be aware of the legislation.
“We want people to come down to Kelowna, whether you’re a visitor or a citizen of Kelowna, and enjoy the downtown festivities,” mentioned Della-Paolera.
“But we also are prepared to end your night early if you don’t follow any of the standard rules that we all are expected to follow while you’re down there.”
That consists of ingesting alcohol in public — one of many RCMP’s greatest considerations.
“I know there’s a lot of people who believe that the parks and the beaches are (allowing alcohol consumption). That does not start until July 7,” mentioned Della-Paolera.
“So if you are caught drinking and they are subject to a $230 fine, your liquor will be taken away from you.”
Canada Day festivities in Kelowna started at 10 a.m., and can wrap up round 12 hours later with a fireworks show.
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