By Stuart Fullarton
RCMP in Central Alberta are reminding drivers that not all vehicle-related incidents occur in traffic.
In times of extreme heat, leaving a child unattended in a vehicle for any amount of time can pose a danger to the child’s health and safety, say RCMP. They’re asking the public to report any cases of children being left alone in vehicles, which they say may cause medical distress to the child, or put him or her at a greater risk of running away or being abducted.
“RCMP takes reports of unattended children in vehicles very seriously,” notes a Red Deer RCMP media release. “Consequences could include Criminal Code charges and investigations by Child and Family Services.”
In another matter, Red Deer RCMP are also reminding drivers to ensure their license plates remain clear of mud, snow and any items such as trailer hitches that could obscure them either partially or fully.
Cpl. Matt LaBelle of Red Deer RCMP Traffic Services notes that drivers’ safety may be compromised as a result of worn, damaged or obscured license plates.
“From a safety perspective, having unidentifiable vehicles moving around in the community makes it more difficult for police to trace those who have criminal intentions,” he said in a release. “When RCMP see obscured license plates, we’re going to pull you over.”
Drivers with obscured license plates may find themselves hit with a $115 fine. But they may also lose the ability to have their vehicle recovered, in the event that it becomes lost or stolen.
“If your license plate is obscured and your vehicle gets stolen, the RCMP’s ability to identify your vehicle is limited,” said LaBelle. “As well, some drivers who have deliberately obscured their license plates in an attempt to avoid being identified by police are continuing to drive dangerously, and that’s a safety hazard for everyone on the road.”