Bow Island RCMP want to remind the public about seatbelt safety

March is just around the corner and according to the Alberta Traffic Safety calendar, seatbelts are this month’s focus.
Buckling up remains the simplest and most effective way to protect you and your passengers from injury in the event of a collision.
The Alberta RCMP encourages you to practice the following traffic safety tips for optimal use of seatbelts:
· ensure the seatbelt is positioned securely across the hip bones and the shoulder. The shoulder belt should sit across the centre of the chest, and never under your arm or behind your back. In a collision, this could cause fatal injuries.
· most children are ready for standard seatbelts when they are between eight and 12 years of age and are taller than 4’9” (145 cm). (Safe Roads)
· Children under the age of 13 are safest in the back seat. (Safe Roads)
“According to Alberta Transportation, there were 341 unbelted fatalities in Alberta from 2012 to 2016 – this number is still far too high,” said Supt. Rick Gardner, Alberta Sheriffs.
“Seatbelts should always be worn, regardless of the distance or speed you are traveling. Always apply the same sensible safety rules to all vehicles, including recreational ones.”
“In 2019, Alberta RCMP issued over 9,000 tickets to vehicle drivers and passengers for not wearing a seatbelt,” said Supt. Gary Graham, Alberta Traffic Services. “We remind Albertans that seatbelts are proven to save lives and minimize injuries. Traffic safety is a shared responsibility: buckle up, every single time, whether you’re driving to work or just around the block.”
Everyone is reminded to keep their property locked up and to report any suspicious activity. Many of your calls have greatly assisted us in solving a number of rural crimes this past year.
Please remove keys from your vehicles.
Bow Island/Foremost RCMP would like to have a Community engagement meeting. Last year we had a community meeting in Foremost and had a fantastic turnout. Unfortunately, due to Covid -19 restrictions we cannot have an in person meeting.
What we are hoping to host is a zoom meeting. As an organization, the RCMP wants to hear from their community members. We believe what you have to say is important so let’s try and set up a zoom meeting where we can address any issues or concerns. We will let everyone know once this is set up.
There were 104 calls for service between the months of December2020 and February 2021 – this is down 10 calls from this time last year
Final note, Bow Island Detachment is currently under renovations therefore we are working out of Redcliff.
For Criminal Record Checks, Traffic collisions please send all your information through RCMP.KBowIsland.GRC@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.
Please remain safe and healthy!
Remember to call 403-545-2100 to have your local police dispatched. In the event of an emergency call 911.
Until next time.
Sgt. Neil BAILEY
NCO/ic Bow Island/Foremost RCMP

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