Safety Key to Family Fun at the Richmond O Zone
26 January 2010
When 15,000 people enter the gates each day at the Richmond O Zone next month to enjoy Richmond’s official 2010 Winter Games celebration site, they don’t want or need to worry about whether they will be safe. While they’re listening to a live band, strolling through a cultural exhibit or sampling some of Richmond’s diverse cuisine, behind the scenes, a team of security professionals will be hard at work.
“The health and safety of our visitors are our top priorities,” says Richmond Mayor Malcolm Brodie. “The O Zone is a fun event for all ages. It will be a safe and secure place as we want each visitor to enjoy all the O Zone has to offer and take in the Olympic spirit.”
Richmond Fire-Rescue, Richmond RCMP, BC Ambulance and the City’s Community Safety department have spent over a year developing a comprehensive safety plan to prepare, prevent and respond to a potential number of emergencies or events. This plan provides the framework for how the agencies will work together, and how the numerous volunteers and staff will play a role in ensuring the safety of visitors.
There will be zero tolerance for illegal or disorderly behaviour. RCMP officers, Richmond fire fighters and BC Ambulance paramedics will be patrolling the site to spot any issues such as lost children, small fires or medical emergencies. Having crews on patrol will allow emergency responders to respond quickly to requests for help.
Visitors to the O Zone will also go through a security check before entering the site and banned items will be confiscated at the gate. These include weapons of any kind, alcohol, chairs and fireworks. Out of courtesy to others so they can enjoy an unobstructed view of the entertainment, visitors are asked to leave all large umbrellas at home. Rain ponchos will be available to purchase.
A mobile command centre will be stationed in the O Zone to allow emergency crews as place to share information and work together. The centre will be visible to visitors as another place they can go to if in need of assistance.
“Anytime you bring 15,000 people together, there are bound to be some incidents,” says Renny Nesset, Richmond RCMP Officer-in-Charge. “However, by having a comprehensive plan and ensuring the emergency responders work together, we can help mitigate any problems. We are committed to providing a safe experience for our visitors.”
The Richmond O Zone is located in the Civic Precinct/Minoru Park in Richmond, BC. It will open on Friday, February 12, 2010 and run until Sunday, February 28, 2010, with a sneak preview on Tuesday, February 9 for the Olympic Torch Relay Community Celebration. The hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 3 to 11 p.m. and from noon to 11 p.m. on weekends.
For more information about the Richmond O Zone visit www.richmondozone.ca.
