May 30, 2016

Transit Policing During Vancouver Sun Run and 420 Pot Protest

Vancouver Sun Run, April 17, 2016

New Westminster – Large crowds are expected in the downtown Vancouver area on Sunday, April 17, 2016 for the 31st Annual
Vancouver Sun Run. The majority of the people attending will make their way into the area using transit which will often be
filled to capacity. SkyTrain, Canada Line, Coast Mountain Bus, SeaBus and West Coast Express will all be offering supplemental
service to accommodate the large numbers of passengers.

Metro Vancouver Transit Police will have additional officers on duty at key stations and points along the system to assist with
crowd management and any problems that may arise. Passengers are encouraged to approach these officers if they encounter
difficulties or to use our text code 87 77 77 to advise us directly if see anything during their commute they believe requires
police attention. Emergency situations should be reported to 911.

The following are Tips for Staying Safe during a Busy Ride:

Stay alert to your surroundings which includes not using head or earphones or being engrossed in your electronic
device. Notice those who notice you.
Keep your electronic devices safely out of sight in closed backpacks, pockets etc. Be especially vigilant when sitting or standing near doors.
Know where the security alarms are on the train and don’t hesitate to use them if you encounter a problem. Report
problems on buses to the bus operator.
It is illegal to drink liquor in public including on trains, buses and in train stations.
When travelling with young children, hold their hand to prevent getting separated from them. If travelling in a group,
agree on a meeting spot prior to travel in case you are separated.
Report anything that appears suspicious including abandoned objects and people that are acting strangely,
inappropriately or who appear nervous or out of place.
Look for a Transit Police Officer, Transit Security Officer or a SkyTrain or Canada Line Attendant if you need assistance.
Download the free Transit Police OnDuty App or Text 87 77 77 to report non-emergency issues on the system.
Check the Alert section of the App for important messages.

420 Pot Protest, April 20, 2016

The Vancouver 420 event brings large numbers of people into the protest area and creates traffic congestion on roads and the transit system. Although this year’s main venue has moved away from the Vancouver Art Gallery to Sunset Beach, there is a possibility of some congregating still occurring in the area of the Art Gallery.

Metro Vancouver Police will have additional officers on duty during the protest with an increased presence at the downtown SkyTrain and Canada Line Stations. Officers will also be deployed at key locations to enable response to buses on the Burrard and Davie transit corridors.

During the 2015 420 event, Transit Police responded to numerous reports of unruly behaviour on buses. Officers will be conducting “step-ons” on buses throughout the day to ensure a high profile presence and discourage this kind of behaviour.

Passengers on the transit system are encouraged to approach our officers if they encounter difficulties or to use our text code 87 77 77 to advise us directly if they see anything during their commute they believe requires police attention. Emergency situations should be reported to 911. Follow us on Twitter @TransitPolice for updated information.

Transit Police is committed to maintaining order, promoting safety and reducing crime on the transit system in Metro Vancouver.