RCMP members attending Remembrance Day services have been advised to carry their sidearms following recent events in Ottawa.
“This is a major shift in our standard uniform dress policy,” Sgt. Jeff Campbell told CTV News.
He said the decision came from RCMP headquarters in Ottawa following recent attacks in that city.
“The RMCP and other municipal agencies across Canada are taking additional steps to ensure that police officers and Canadian forces members are safe and the general public is safe during Remembrance Day services.”
The policy also applies to officers who are off-duty but attending a ceremony.
“Any members that are attending off-duty but in uniform such as red serge they are asked to be in full review order number one, which means armed.”
Officers will also be carrying spare magazines and handcuffs as part of the order.
“The public wants to ensure that yes we are taking steps to ensure their safety at these types of events,” Sgt. Campbell explained.
According to Sgt. Campbell there will also be extra officers monitoring the services.
“During very large events such as Edmonton and Calgary additional plainclothes officers will be monitoring the ceremonies and ensuring public safety.”
One Edmontonian said he was happy to hear of the changes.
“It's absolutely necessary,” Paul Madason said.
“We cannot have too many precautions.”
With files from Amanda Anderson
