LAC LA BICHE - Specially-marked areas in the parking lots of RCMP stations across the Lakeland are helping residents to safely buy and sell products.
As of Dec. 19, almost all of the 27 RCMP detachments in the Eastern Alberta District have implemented the Safe Exchange Program. The Lac La Biche RCMP detachment is one of the most recent offices to create the safe-space.
Online transactions, virtual discussions and the e-transfer of funds have made many efficiencies in buy-and-sell transactions, says Lac La Biche RCMP Sgt. Trevor Cardinal, and while many of these transactions occur safely without issue, he says there can be safety risks associated with meeting anyone online.
“These safe exchange zones will provide a place for community members to safely meet while making sales, purchases and exchanges," he tells Lakelandtoday.ca.
The initiative is a way that local police are helping to maintain safety in the communities they serve, explained Cardinal.
"This is another tool in an effort to contribute to the safety and well-being of our community members” he said.
Legal and custody matters
The safe zones are not only being used for buy-and-sell transactions, says Cardinal, explaining that there are many other interactions where the public may have concerns about their safety, such as child custody, and document exchanges.
The safe exchange zones will be clearly marked outside Eastern Alberta District Detachments as either parking stalls or a designated area. Residents do not have to contact the detachment to use the site.
The safe exchange zone is not specifically monitored by the detachment or surveillance cameras; however, detachment officers are available to assist should there be a call for assistance, says Cardinal, adding that any criminal activity is subject to enforcement action.