Speed watch volunteers needed

New Hazelton RCMP is looking for volunteers in the area for the Newly created Speed Watch program. Speed Watch is an ICBC sponsored educational program aimed at reducing incidents of speeding. This program not only provides awareness to drivers who are speeding, but it also provides valuable data to the RCMP and ICBC on areas where speeding is a significant problem.

How does Speed Watch work?

Speed Watch checks are operated by dedicated volunteers who have been trained by the police or qualified operators. Using portable radar equipment and an electronic digital board, volunteers monitor speeds in school and playground zones, high crash zones, and neighbourhood streets. Volunteers record the speed of vehicles and forward these reports to police and ICBC. Areas with high incidents of speeding will be considered for future RCMP enforcement. Speed Watch program can be expanded to include distracted driving campaigns

Does Speed Watch help?

Research has shown that Speed Watch does work. Over 70 percent of drivers travelling 10km/h over the speed limit slow down when they see a speed reader board.

The Dangers of Speeding

Speed is a leading cause of motor vehicle accidents in British Columbia every year and is responsible for many deaths. The faster you go, the longer it takes to stop. It takes 18 meters to come to a complete stop when driving 30km/h (on a dry, paved surface), but more than double that distance, 37 meters, when driving at 50km/h. At 120 km/h, a vehicle will travel the length of a football field before stopping completely.

Volunteer Requirements

• Be 19 years of age or older, younger volunteer may be accepted with parent/guardian approval.
• Commit to a minimum of one year of voluntary service, providing a minimum of 4 hours per week, and be able to attend all required training sessions and meetings.
• Consent to a Police Records Check and background reference check.
• Must not be under investigation by any police force.
• Take an Oath of Confidentiality, adhere to the RCMP Organizational Code of Ethics and Harassment Policy, and abide by Detachment rules and regulations.
• Valid BC Driver’s License (for positions that require the use of a vehicle)
• Have and maintain a clean driving record for the past 5 years (for positions that require the use of a vehicle)

If this is something that you would like to part of, contact the New Hazelton RCMP at (250) 842-5244.