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VANCOUVER – Police in the Lower Mainland are getting B.C.’s first dedicated, fully equipped traffic safety helicopter, Solicitor General John Les announced today.
“Each year car accidents and
hit-and-runs kill more British Columbians than all violent crimes combined,”
Les said. “The helicopter will help police spot and track dangerous drivers,
and will reduce the chance of high speed chases that put the public at risk.”
The $2.2-million Eurocopter EC-120B
Colibri, nicknamed Air One, can be used by municipal police and RCMP throughout
the Lower Mainland. For tracking suspected criminals at night, the helicopter
includes specialized equipment like an infra-red camera and a high-power light.
“This helicopter will provide aerial support to 17 municipalities in the Lower Mainland,” said Deputy Commissioner Beverley Busson, Commanding Officer for the RCMP in British Columbia. “It will enhance the ability of police traffic services to address overall safety on roadways, provide safer conduct and control of situations involving drivers who are attempting to evade police, and assist with overall crime reduction as part of our strategic goal for safer homes and communities.”
“This announcement could not have
come at a better time,” says Vancouver Police Chief Jamie Graham. “With the
integration of police services, we are better able to co-ordinate the use of a
helicopter across a dozen municipal and RCMP detachments. This law enforcement
tool represents a long lasting commitment to public safety.”
B.C.’s enhanced road
safety enforcement initiative also includes bait cars and the establishment of
specialized Integrated Road Safety Units around the province. Along with
targeting aggressive and impaired drivers, the units help ensure seatbelt
compliance and intersection safety.
Air One is funded through a joint traffic safety agreement between the Province and the Insurance Corporation of BC. The federal government also contributed to some of the helicopter costs. The helicopter will start regular flights in March, once crews have completed their training and orientation.
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Public Affairs Officer 250 356-6961 |
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For more information on government services or to subscribe to the Province’s news feeds using RSS, visit the Province’s website at www.gov.bc.ca. |
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