Winnipeg police to assign extra officers for Canada Day
Additional security needed to manage large crowds, police say
People enjoying Canada Day events in Winnipeg Saturday will likely notice more police officers than usual.
Record crowds are expected at Canada 150 celebrations at The Forks, Osborne Village and Assiniboine Park, Winnipeg police public information officer Const. Rob Carver said on Thursday.
"Winnipeggers can expect to see an increased police presence throughout the day and well into the evening," said Carver.
He said the additional officers are simply needed to handle the large crowds, not because police have any specific information or are "anticipating trouble."
While some demonstrations are expected, Carver said he expects any protests will be peaceful.
Officers are experienced in maintaining security while also allowing people to express their political opinions, he said.
Avoid driving to The Forks: police
Due to the large crowds, Carver said drivers should consider leaving their cars at home and opt for other ways to get to Canada Day hot spots like The Forks or Assiniboine Park.
"Please consider carpooling with friends or family, or walking, cycling or taking public transit," Carver said.
Police are expecting as many as 100,000 people to attend a special Canada 150 fireworks show at The Forks.
After the fireworks are done, police will be preventing cars from leaving the site until all pedestrians have been able to safely leave.
This will create delays of at least 30 minutes for vehicles leaving parking lots at The Forks, Carver said.
"If you've chosen to come in a car you're just going to have to be patient," he said.
Lock your doors
Winnipeg police also issued a warning on Thursday to residents to take practical steps to avoid home invasions and burglary.
Police say they've seen an increase in residential break and enter reports in recent weeks.
Const. Tammy Skrabek reminded Winnipeggers to lock all their doors, including entrances to patios and windows, at night or when doing yard work to prevent theft.
She said most home invasions are crimes of opportunity and relatively unsophisticated.
Police launched a new safety video to underscore simple ways homeowners can prevent theft.