Whoever said summer camp is a walk in the park never attended drill instruction at Coquitlam RCMP’s annual Jr. Mounties police academy program.
There, it’s more like a march in the arena.
Today, July 18, about 100 participants in the week-long camp that exposes school kids from around the Tri-Cities and kʷikʷəƛ̓əm (Kwikwetlem) First Nation to police work like handcuffing techniques and searching a suspect, as well as provides them with age-appropriate safety instructions, were put through their marching paces at the Poirier Sport and Leisure Complex.
Under the stern eyes and commanding voices of drill instructors, Staff Sgt. Jeff Ketola and Cpl. Andrew Blakeman, the ranks of junior officers, aged 10 to 14, fell into rank and order with varying degrees of proficiency.
They were preparing for the camp’s wrap-up event Friday, July 19, where they’ll be able to put some of the skills they’ve learned on display for family, friends, and of course, their discerning officers.
The finale also includes a Show ’n Shine, with police cruisers, motorcycles and a boat on display, along with a fire truck from Coquitlam Fire/Rescue.
Have you ever seen the inside of a police car or a robot used by the RCMP Explosives Disposal Unit? 🔧
— Coquitlam RCMP (@cqrcmp) July 15, 2024
Specialized tools and equipment used by public safety teams are just some of the engaging exhibits featured at Show n' Shine. Explore all this and more on July 19! ✨ pic.twitter.com/3dxwnEurfU
Representatives from other first responders, like Coquitlam Search and Rescue (SAR), BC Ambulance Service and the Lower Mainland Integrated Police Dog Services will also be in attendance to chat, answer questions and show off what they do.
The free event runs from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Poirier (633 Poirier St.).
@tricitynews Show n’ Shine. 🚔🚒🚑 #tricitynews #coquitlam #portcoquitlam #rcmp #firefighter #ambulance #shownshine ♬ original sound - TriCityNews
