Kelowna RCMP will use ATVs to patrol rail trail this summer
Kelowna RCMP are introducing ATVs to its fleet of patrol vehicles this summer.
Mounties have decided to address safety concerns surrounding the Okanagan Rail Trail by patrolling on ATVs, also known as four-wheelers, according to an RCMP press release issued today, April 15.
RCMP said ATVs will help the Community Safety Unit patrol areas that are difficult to access by car or bicycle.
“Highly maneuverable and able to traverse some of the roughest terrain, ATVs obviously give us the versatility to get into those areas quickly and conduct the necessary enforcement," RCMP Sgt. Scott Powrie said in the release.
“ATVs are cost-effective and can be used in a variety of settings, from assisting search and rescue to proactive patrol operations. Our officers are provided specialized ATV training giving them the skills and riding techniques necessary for law enforcement and any other tasks asked of us.”
Officers will be looking for criminal activity along the rail trail, but also for fire risks and damage caused by people who are camping in non-designated areas.
Kelowna residents will be seeing Mounties on foot, bikes and ATVs.
RCMP said it will also be focusing patrols in the downtown core, Rutland, city parks and beaches.
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