Despite new regulations, Saskatoon police report uptick in bear spray attacks

Rising Concerns Over Bear Spray Misuse in Saskatchewan

In an effort to address the growing issue of bear spray being used as a weapon in public spaces, the province of Saskatchewan introduced additional regulations in December. Despite these measures, Saskatoon police reported a troubling number of bear spray incidents during the long weekend alone, with 10 attacks occurring in a short span. This surge in incidents has raised serious questions about the effectiveness of the new regulations and the safety of public spaces. The problem appears to be escalating, with 23 bear spray-related incidents reported by Saskatoon police in December and 31 in January. These numbers underscore the challenges authorities face in combating this issue, even with stricter laws in place.

Challenges in Enforcement and Prevention

Law enforcement officials in Saskatoon have highlighted the difficulties in preventing bear spray attacks, even with the new provincial regulations. Saskatoon Police Chief Cameron McBride explained that the discrete nature of bear spray makes it hard to detect and address before it is used. “We are seizing it and we are laying the appropriate charges, but we have to see it,” McBride said. “If you don’t see it and you don’t know it’s there, you can’t deal with it. Unfortunately, because it’s being concealed, we don’t know until they’ve pulled it out and used it.” This concealment factor poses a significant hurdle for police, as they often only become aware of the presence of bear spray after it has been used in an attack.

Incidents in Public Spaces: Malls and Plazas Affected

The misuse of bear spray has not been confined to streets; it has also occurred in enclosed public spaces, such as shopping malls. The Centre mall in Saskatoon experienced an incident where bear spray was discharged, prompting a swift response from security and police. Following a thorough cleanup, the affected areas were reopened to the public. In a statement, The Centre expressed gratitude to their security team and the Saskatoon Police Service for their prompt action. Similarly, Midtown Plaza also reported concerns over bear spray incidents, describing them as “very concerning to everyone.” Both locations emphasized their commitment to improving safety and ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for customers, tenants, and staff. However, both The Centre and Midtown Plaza declined requests for interviews on the matter, suggesting a reluctance to delve deeper into the specific challenges they face.

The Role of Online Availability and Police Limitations

One factor that has not been explicitly addressed by local authorities is the potential role of online sales in the proliferation of bear spray as a street weapon. When asked about the acquisition of bear spray online, Saskatoon Police Chief Cameron McBride declined to comment directly but acknowledged that police are exploring all possible avenues. “I’m not going to comment on that right now,” McBride said. “But certainly, now that you’ve brought it up, I can give you my assurance that if that’s the case, it will be looked at for sure.” McBride also noted the limitations faced by municipal police in addressing online sales, particularly when international sources are involved. This highlights the broader challenge of regulating the sale and distribution of bear spray, especially when it comes to cross-border transactions.

Community Safety and Collaborative Efforts

In response to the growing concern over bear spray incidents, local businesses and community organizations are working closely with law enforcement to enhance safety in public spaces. Midtown Plaza, for instance, is collaborating with the Saskatoon Police Service, the Downtown Business Improvement District (BID), and City Council to address the issue. These stakeholders are striving to create a safer environment for everyone, from customers and tenants to staff and visitors. However, the decline in interviews from representatives of The Centre and Midtown Plaza suggests that some parties may still be hesitant to discuss the issue openly, potentially indicating a lack of confidence in the current measures or a fear of reputational damage.

Looking Ahead: The Need for Comprehensive Solutions

The rise in bear spray attacks in Saskatchewan, particularly in Saskatoon, calls for a comprehensive and multifaceted approach to ensure public safety. While the new regulations are a step in the right direction, they must be complemented by increased public awareness, community engagement, and tougher penalties for misuse. Police and other stakeholders must also explore innovative strategies to detect and prevent the concealed carry of bear spray in public spaces. Additionally, addressing the root causes of this trend, such as the availability of bear spray through online channels, will be crucial to curbing its misuse. By fostering collaboration between law enforcement, businesses, and the community, Saskatchewan can take meaningful steps toward creating safer and more secure public spaces for all.