The Estevan Police Service is supportive of new restrictions that have been put in place by the provincial government when it comes to the COVID-19 pandemic, and it will enforce those measures.
Chief Paul Ladouceur said people have been compliant thus far with the self-isolation measures required for those who are returning to Saskatchewan after spending time in other countries.
Businesses that are now subject to closures or limitations on their service have also followed the rules.
“The hope, I think is that the police won’t have to intervene, but certainly we’ve been given those powers that if we need to, we’re able to,” said Ladouceur. “The goal here is compliance through education.”
A wide range of businesses, from bars to hair salons to tattoo parlors are among those now closed. There can also be no more than 25 people in a room at one time.
“The bottom line is it’s an inconvenience right now for everybody, without a doubt, but it’s for the greater good at the end of the day,” said Ladouceur.
If the public sees a business that is open and contravening the current legislation, then they should contact the EPS. Or if they see someone out and about who should be in self-isolation after travelling internationally, then they should reach out to the police.
“I wouldn’t say we’re assigning members to go check every business, and make sure it’s compliant. What we’re doing is basically saying is if you’re out there, and you see something that’s non-compliant, our members are out there patrolling every day.”
Restrictions have changed rapidly, and may cause confusion.
The EPS wants people to remain safe and think about why these restrictions are now in place.
In-house, the EPS has staffing plans in place. They have taken a number of precautions, including protective gear and masks for members. Vehicles are sanitized constantly, and cleaning of the police station has been upgraded.
People are pre-screened before being allowed in the building, and unless it’s absolutely necessary, they won’t be admitted.
“We have to make sure our front-line staff members are safe if we’re going to keep our community safe.”
During last Wednesday’s police board meeting, Ladouceur said he wouldn’t be surprised if the crime numbers in the community increase, even with the number of people who are now working at home or staying home due to COVID-19.
“There is the potential for a spike in calls and related social issue calls, due to domestic violence and things like that. When you start confining people to homes for a long period of time, it doesn’t help situations by any means,” he said.
The EPS has been working with the the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency, Public Health and the RCMP to address the issue and ensure the community remains safe and to see the numbers go down.
“I’m just encouraging people to certainly reach out,” said Ladouceur. “There’s a lot of services available. If people need that support to reach out, use your telephones. Communicate with friends and family during these times.”
As of Monday afternoon, Saskatchewan has 65 cases of COVID-19, with 64 confirmed and one presumptive. None of the cases are in the Estevan area.
