As the thoughts of Albertans turn to the southern, flood-ravaged areas of the province, more practical assistance is also heading down Highway 2 – the St. Albert RCMP.
Insp. Kevin Murray, officer in charge of the local detachment, confirmed to the Gazette Friday that members of the local detachment are heading down to work in the flooded areas of southern Alberta.
“All over,” said Murray, who said not just St. Albert Mounties will be helping out, but Mounties from all over Alberta. “We have been requested to provide resources down to High River area for a period of days.”
Murray noted he had already heard about the Edmonton Police Service sending some resources down to Calgary, badly hit by flash floods due to heavy rain.
As he pointed out, that’s one municipality helping another. The RCMP role will focus more on areas where RCMP work most: rural areas. He said St. Albert RCMP officers will help out mostly with security duties, keeping an eye on flood areas that are evacuated.
Murray said that, as a 30-year-plus veteran of the force, seeing members go down to help out in a disaster like the floods makes him want to jump in a patrol cruiser and head down there too.
“Twenty years ago I would have been all over that,” he said.
“Any time you participate in one of these events … you have to appreciate what the members sense. That they’re really sensing what they’re doing for these people.
“They’re giving assistance and hope in a situation that’s pretty bleak.”
For those who might be concerned about local police service during the flood aid, Murray said there is no cause for concern. Only RCMP members who are on days off or otherwise not scheduled to work are contacted and offered the chance to help out with flood aid. “We call them direct,” said Murray.
“We see who’s available. (The response) is good. Most of our members are ready to assist.
“We only release the amount of resources we believe will allow us to provide the proper community safety.”
Heavy rains this past week swelled rivers such as the Bow running through Calgary, causing authorities to issue evacuation orders to at least 100,000 people. Reports have stated overflow at the Glenmore Dam was about four times as much as the dam can handle. Towns like Bragg Creek and High River were hard hit, with the Elbow River also breaking its banks.
For local residents who want to help flood victims, the Red Cross is one of the best ways. Online donations can be made at www.redcross.ca or call toll-free 1-800-418-1111.
