New auxiliaries in training

They’ll be ready by Spring.

Eight men and two woman are undergoing training in the North Okanagan to become Auxiliary Constables.

Constable Cathy Scott says training of the new recruits started on January 26.

“Training will consist of 120 hours of approved RCMP training. The new constables will be ready for action in May,” says Scott.

She says Auxiliary Constables are volunteers who are identified in the community through regular contact with regular members.

“Applicants must meet the basic requirements and, if successful, will wear the uniform of the RCMP that clearly identifies them as Auxiliary Constables. The primary purpose is to participate in community policing service activities relating to public safety and crime prevention.”

Scott says Auxiliary Constables are authorized to accompany regular members on patrol and perform other police functions under both general and direct supervision.

“Some of the local activities attended to by auxiliaries are Foot/Bike/Ski/Boat Patrol, DARE, Canada Day Celebrations, Remembrance Day, School Presentations, Local Celebrations, Major Community Events, Emergency Event Response.”

For those interested in the Auxiliary Constable Program, another training session starts in the fall.