ON Saturday, April 18 the Surrey RCMP will be participating in this year’s Surrey Vaisakhi Parade, one of the largest Vaisakhi celebrations in the world outside of India.
“The Surrey RCMP is proud to participate in this yearly event that showcases the true diversity of our city,” says Surrey RCMP Community Services Officer Inspector Ghalib Bhayani. “Our officers and auxiliary constables always enjoy seeing the enthusiasm of participants and celebrating the rich culture of the Sikh community.”
The Surrey RCMP is involved with the Vaisakhi parade not just for traffic control and public safety, but to take part in the festivities as well. In addition to an information booth with resources about programs and initiatives, RCMP officers will also be on site wearing their traditional red serge. The public is invited to come by and take photos at this location at 128th Street and 84th Avenue.
A number of road closures will be taking place in the City of Surrey this weekend due to the festivities and police advise members of the public to make the necessary preparations and arrange to use alternate routes. For a full list of road closures and route details view the map here or you can visit www.surreyvaisakhiparade.ca.
Every year the Surrey RCMP responds to dozens of incidents of missing children at the Vaisakhi parade due to children becoming separated from their parents. All children were eventually reunited with their parents; however, the Surrey RCMP reminds parents to have conversations with their children before attending this weekend’s events about what to do if they become separated. Simple tips include:
* Familiarize your children with their surroundings and have a pre-planned meeting place,
* Equip your child with some form of identification and your contact information,
* Point out the Surrey RCMP’s missing children’s tent and emergency services personnel,
* Keep a current photo of your child on you in case you need to describe them to police,
* Keep your child within eyesight at all times.
Surrey RCMP say: “Thank you to all those who volunteer their time and have a safe and happy Vaisakhi!”
