After the events of the Lapu Lapu Day Festival tragedy, many other Metro Vancouver events are upping their security measures. In order to prevent another massacre like the previous one from happening, people are looking for further solutions to keep their community safe.
One such event in the Okanagan is taking action to assure its guests can have fun while being safe.
THE DARKEST DAY
Interim Police Chief Steve Rai named April 26 as the “darkest day in Vancouver’s history.” On this day, a man drove a black SUV through a crowd at the Lapu Lapu Day festival. 11 people were killed, and many more were injured.
The Filipino community has since come together to collectively grieve for those lost. Friends and family, as well as other Metro Vancouver community members, have regularly left flowers and candles for the victims of this tragedy. As of now, there are talks for a more permanent memorial to be established.
But, the consequences for such a tragedy extend far into the future. Many have called into question the security measures of other upcoming events. And with the Spring season in full-swing, people are warier than ever to attend these festivities.
PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES
The Penticton Farmers’ Market has since improved their security to assure the safety of everyone involved.
The manager of the market, Linda Van Alphen, has noted that event organizers are discussing with city officials to establish longer-term solutions to create safe event environments. For now, the Penticton Farmers’ Market includes two large vehicles parked at either end of the entrance of the market, blocking other cars from entering.
These cars are owned by participating vendors who are prepared to move their vehicles in case of an emergency.
Julius Bloomfield, the Mayor of Penticton, said the city is working on reviewing “potential opportunities” so that other tragedies may be prevented. He thanked the organizers of the Penticton Farmers’ Market for being proactive and coordinating with emergency services, as well.
It’s important that everybody at any event feels safe. Hopefully, more organizers will follow in the Penticton Farmers’ Market’s steps and be active in their efforts to do so.
