News | DrumhellerMail - Page #142
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Last updateSat, 21 Sep 2024 12pm

Drumheller firefighters averaging over a call per day

100 years 2019

In the first eight months of 2023, the Drumheller Fire Department has responded to 265 calls-this is, on average, just over one call per day.
Drumheller Fire Chief Derian Rosario says the department, which includes the Drumheller, East Coulee, and Rosedale halls, could see over 400 calls by the end of the year if the trend continues as it has.
“Our greatest increase is in monitored alarm calls and EMS assist (medical first responder) calls,” Chief Rosario tells the Mail.
The Mail reported in January 2023 the department had responded to a total of 309 calls in 2022; this was an increase from 2021 when the department responded to 193 calls, and it appears the trend of increased call volume is continuing.
Although members of the three halls have responded to a variety of calls, ranging from structure fires and motor vehicle collisions, many of the calls they attend are for alarms from monitored alarm companies. It is unclear what, if any, financial impact these types of calls have; the Mail reached out to Chief Rosario as to whether there is an associated cost to the municipality for department members to attend a false alarm or monitored alarm call, but had not received any figures as of press time.
A close second are EMS assist and other Medical First Responder calls, in which the department is called to provide care when an ambulance is either unavailable or not in the immediate vicinity, or when assistance is needed by EMS personnel on scene.
Chief Rosario notes, while firefighters are qualified to act in the capacity as Medical First Responders, they are not allowed to transport patients.


RCMP investigate grocery store break and enter

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Drumheller RCMP is investigating an early morning break and enter on August 28.
At approximately 2:15 a.m. on August 28th, 2023, Drumheller RCMP members responded to an intrusion alarm and possible break and enter in progress at the Extra Foods Grocery Store located on Hwy 9 in Drumheller.
It was discovered that at least 2 suspects had gained entry into the building but fled prior to police arrival.
The investigation revealed there was an attempt to steal several items including electronics; however it is believed no items were taken. A Drumheller RCMP member that specializes in Property Crime Forensics attended the scene to assist in the investigation. The investigation is ongoing.
If you have any information regarding this matter, please contact the Drumheller RCMP at 403.823.7590 or contact your local Police Service. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.

Law enforcement steps up September long weekend

Long Weekend Checkstop

In anticipation of a busy long weekend, Drumheller valley and surrounding areas were subject to enhanced policing over the long weekend.
Police presence and operations were strengthened by having additional members working and by partnering with Drumheller Municipal Enforcement Officers, local Sheriffs, and Fish and Wildlife.
RCMP responded to a total of 38 calls for service and issued a total of 22 violation tickets for traffic offences.
A total of four checkstops were held, including with partners, in various areas of the detachment area. 180 vehicles were checked and resulted in three traffic tickets, one liquor ticket, and four drivers who were suspended for providing breath samples in the “warning” category which resulted in a three-day license suspension, vehicle seizure, and additional provincial sanctions.
One driver was suspended for failing a breath test, resulting in a 90-day suspension, 30-day vehicle seizure, and additional provincial sanctions.
Two arrest warrants were also executed.
A total of three vehicles were seized.
In one case, a 25-year-old female from Medicine Hat drove into a large-scale check-stop while talking on her phone earning her a $300 fine for holding/using a cell phone while operating a motor vehicle.

Along with these check-stops, a 41-year-old female from Drumheller found trespassing on a property, was arrested for two outstanding traffic warrants. The investigation found she was in possession of suspected methamphetamine and fentanyl, and in possession of a knife contrary to court conditions.
The female was charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance, Fail to Comply with Probation, and Fail to Comply with a Release Order. She was released from custody.
Staff Sergeant Robert Harms stated, “Enhancing our policing and planning enforcement operations over the long weekend was a direct response to anticipating increased traffic flow and activities in the area and aligns with our Policing Priorities of Crime Reduction and Traffic Safety”.
“It is troubling to see some people continue to drive under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, and the RCMP will continue operations, including with partners, to seek those drivers out and remove them from the roadways,” he said.
If you have any information regarding criminal activity, please contact Drumheller RCMP at 403-823-7590, call 911, or contact your local Police Service.
If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the "P3 Tips" app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.


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