Add StudioX as a preferred source on GoogleVancouver police say approximately 80 additional officers will be deployed across the city over Halloween weekend as thousands of people prepare to attend celebrations on Saturday, October 31.
The Vancouver Police Department (VPD) said the extra officers will support public safety and respond to increased activity expected in the Granville Entertainment District, Gastown and neighbourhoods throughout Vancouver.
In a news release issued Friday, October 30, the department said officers will focus on foot patrols, traffic enforcement, youth engagement and proactive policing. They will work alongside community partners and emergency services.
Where Vancouver police expect more activity
The VPD specifically identified the Granville Entertainment District and Gastown as areas where increased activity is expected. The department said the additional deployment will also cover neighbourhoods across the city.
The announcement describes a temporary Halloween-weekend deployment. It does not indicate that the department is adding 80 permanent positions.
Police warn against realistic imitation weapons
The VPD is asking people not to carry imitation firearms or replica weapons as part of their costumes. Police said realistic-looking replicas can create fear, prompt emergency calls and lead to a significant police response.
The department is encouraging people to choose costume accessories that cannot be mistaken for real weapons, celebrate responsibly and look out for one another.
When to call 911
Constable Megan Lui said people should call 911 immediately if they witness a crime in progress, suspicious activity or a situation that puts someone’s safety at risk.
Vancouver’s deployment applies within the city. Surrey residents should also check local rules before setting off fireworks or using other restricted items. StudioX News has published a separate guide to Surrey’s Halloween and Diwali fireworks rules and fines.
The full announcement is available in the Vancouver Police Department’s October 30 news release.
Harnaik Singh Rathor is the Founder, Publisher, and Editor-in-Chief of StudioX News Canada, Canada's multilingual digital news network serving multilingual diaspora communities across Canada. With a background in media production, public relations, and multicultural communications, he founded StudioX Film and TV Corporation to bridge the gap between mainstream Canadian media and the country's diverse immigrant communities. He is a member of the Canadian Association of Journalists (CAJ), RTDNA Canada, CPRS Vancouver, NEPMCC, and the Canadian Freelance Union (Unifor). Based in Surrey, British Columbia. | LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harnaiksinghrathor/ | Muck Rack: https://muckrack.com/harnaiksinghrathor | Email: editor@studioxnews.ca
