With summer just around the corner, Surrey RCMP is once again ramping up efforts to keep the city’s parks safe.
The Mounties typically see a rise in noise complaints, mischief, public consumption of alcohol and other illegal activities in parks as the warmer weather draws citizens to outdoor activities.
But, “while the majority of people will abide by the City of Surrey’s park by-laws, there are often a small number of individuals who do not,” said Sgt. Drew Grainger.
To promote an enjoyable and safe summer for residents and visitors alike, the Surrey RCMP’s Neighborhood Liaison Units, City of Surrey bylaws officers and community volunteers will not only enforce the laws, but also facilitate information and prevention sessions to the public.
Some of these sessions involve officers visiting local high schools to speak to the 2012 graduates about alcohol and drug abuse, as well as some of the bylaw fines associated with these activities in parks.
“We understand that the students want to celebrate. As officers, we just want to ensure that they do so responsibly and safely,” Grainger said.
City of Surrey parks are closed from dusk to dawn. Anyone found in a park between those hours could be fined $200. Those found in possession of open liquor or consuming alcohol in a park could be fined up to $230.
For off-leash dogs, the fine is $200.
As part of the summer enforcement effort, Surrey police will also be working with their White Rock counterparts and the CN Police to patrol the railway and beach areas in an effort to prevent trespassing on the railway, public intoxication, underage consumption of liquor and illegal beach fires.