RCMP detachments will allow front desk access again on August 4. (Josh Ryan/battlefordsNOW Staff)

By Josh Ryan

RCMP help desk

Saskatchewan RCMP detachments to reopen front counters

Jul 30, 2020 | 4:03 PM

RCMP detachments across the province are set to reopen on August 4.

In a release, Saskatchewan RCMP announced the decision to open up to the public again, with limited services. Spokesperson Cpl. Rob King said more education amongst the public and more knowledge amongst staff of how to operate amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, made the choice easier.

“All those factors together, we felt it was safe now to open up the front counter to the general public,” he said. “For the day-to-day inquiries that come in at a detachment level.”

However, the drop-in experience will remain distinctly different than it was prior to the pandemic. Signage at detachment entrances will be posted to inform all visitors of the limited hours of operation, limits on the number of people permitted to wait in the lobby, sanitation and physical distancing and directing the flow of foot traffic. More urgent requests, such as fingerprinting, will feature an intensive screening process, as well as the use of a surgical mask if the request proceeds.

“It’s more the general criminal record checks and the dropping off of complaints and sharing information,” King said. “That’s what we wanted to open up to the public again for.”

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Safety remains a key focus for the RCMP, in asking people who plan to stop at a detachment to call ahead.

“Ask about coming and you may still have questions asked about your general health status,” King said.

For the North Battleford detachment, Sgt. Jason Teniuk said a hand washing station will be available and individuals feeling ill will be asked to stay home.

“We want to ensure that if anyone has a fever or cough or whatever the case is, just not to come in on that particular day, just like the businesses in town,” Teniuk said.

Detachments across the province, including North Battleford, will have safety measures in place to protect residents and staff. (Josh Ryan/battlefordsNOW Staff)

Given the feeling of isolation created in many communities during the COVID-19 pandemic, Teniuk said face-to-face communication will help those coming to the detachment seeking help.

“There are people who come with just general comments and questions, and maybe have an issue and aren’t sure of where to go with it,” Teniuk said. “And [the front desk} really opens up that line of communication.”

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josh.ryan@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @JoshRyanSports