The Estevan Police Service (EPS) is thrilled with the turnout for the open house that the law enforcement agency hosted on Saturday.
Police Chief Paul Ladouceur said an estimated 500 people toured the police station. Many more people opted just to remain outdoors and participate in some of the activities, which included demonstrations, children's games and a barbecue.
“I think everybody had a great time,” Ladouceur told the Mercury. “We received all positive comments. There was great engagement with the community, on both sides. It was a chance to get to interact with them, and for them to interact with us.”
The tours allowed people to view the offices used by the chief and the staff, and observe the technology the EPS has at their disposal. They also had a first-hand look at the police station’s cells for prisoners, the firing range and fitness room. And they learned more about the new Containment Warrant Entry Team and the Criminal Investigations Division.
“This is the relationship the public should have with the police service,” said Ladouceur. “It enables them to feel comfortable contacting us with any concerns or problems, and it shows community safety is a two-way street.”
Many activities were conducted outdoors. Visitors could try an impaired driving simulator offered by Saskatchewan General Insurance, get their finger prints recorded or read information about the dangers of texting while driving. The Estevan Family Resource Centre offered face-painting, and Southeast Newcomer Services served cotton candy and popcorn.
“They did not stop,” said Ladouceur. “The line-up of kids was tremendous.”
A police car-shaped inflatable bouncer was popular with children, Ladouceur said.
The fleet of vehicles used by the EPS was also on display.
The open house also marked the final public appearance for police dog Harvey, who recently retired. He is now living with his long-time handler, acting Sgt. Tyler McMillen.
Ladouceur noted they purchased 300 hamburgers and 80 hot dogs for a barbecue, and those were gone in an hour. They purchased another 150 burgers and 80 hot dogs, and those were gobbled up by 2 p.m.
Proceeds from the barbecue will be used to purchase tickets for the 2016 Saskatchewan Summer Games in Estevan, so underprivileged youth can attend the multi-sport competition.
“We talk about youth inspiring youth, and what a better way than through sport?” said Ladouceur. “It supports two things. It supports these kids being able to attend, and it supports our 2016 Summer Games.”
All of the officers who were at the open house volunteered to be there on their day off work.
The chief said the EPS members were asked several times if this would be an annual event. The final cost of the open house will likely be around $2,000, he said, but he believes it is worthwhile to host the event, so that the public can interact with police and have a greater understanding of changes happening within the police service.
