Red Deer’s community peace officers and RCMP are ready to enforce the city’s new mask bylaw if needed.
“This bylaw is about public safety, and our enforcement will reflect that,” says city municipal policing services manager Bart Rowland. “Where appropriate, we will have conversations with individuals in an effort to educate, but will also issue fines as needed.”
As of Monday, Red Deer residents are required to wear masks in all public buildings and vehicles. Those who refuse to wear a mask or don’t obey Public Health Order restrictions such as maximum occupancy can face fines ranging from $50 to $1,000.
Masks not popular in rural areas
Enforcing the bylaw will mostly be in the hands of community peace officers, but the RCMP could also respond to complaints.
“Regardless of the policing mechanism, harassing behaviour will not be tolerated,” says Supt. Gerald Grobmeier of the Red Deer RCMP. “We’re asking that everyone cooperate with the safety measures that are in place to protect our most vulnerable community members.”
Anyone with questions about enforcement, or need to report a violation, call the police non-emergency line at 403-343-5575. For more information on city’s face covering bylaw go to www.reddeer.ca/masks.
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