Ride along

I had a ride along on Friday night in Surrey which is one of Vancouver's less affluent areas and an area which has a significant number of issues, not dissimilar to parts of the UK's larger cities. I was shown around by Constable Scott Nickel who did a fantastic job of explaining the systems they have there. most notably they have on board computers which allows the individual officers access to all the main information systems there and then which UK officers have to request via phone or radio, it allows for much quicker access to information and, I believe, improved officer safety. the other major difference is of course the carrying of firearms. Without exception all of them were shocked that we did not routinely carry guns and it prompted some interesting discussions about the issues police face both here and at home. we attended a number of incidents in my time with them, a serious RTC, a break and enter (burglary) in progress where guns were drawn - I made sure to keep behind the armed officers at that point - fights and several other jobs,. As at home, the police work closely with the other emergency services and it was interesting to be able to speak with them too. generally a fascinating and most unusual insight into day to day Canadian policing. It also goes to show that the essence of policing is identical, where ever you travel, its more the local policies and the individuals which differ.

Emily