Be warned these eyes will be on you in Kelowna this weekend and the rest of the summer

Heading into the weekend with temperatures expected to soar into the low 30s, Kelowna has sent out a reminder that patrols have been beefed up both on land and water to boost your sense of safety.

There are four joint teams of RCMP officers and bylaw bike teams patrolling the downtown and surrounding areas, seven days a week, and they will continue doing so into September, according to a City of Kelowna media release.

Two RCMP boats will be patrolling on Okanagan Lake to encourage safe boating and discourage illegal activity.

"Ultimately, we hope that our increased presence by boot, bike and boat will reduce the calls for service and prevent crimes within our community," Kelowna RCMP Insp. Dale Somerville said in the release. "Additionally, our officers are using our RCMP 'gator' utility vehicle to respond and patrol areas accessible only by foot and bicycle."

Due to COVID-19 pandemic, the City's special Safety Education Ambassadors are also patrolling beaches and other popular areas reminding people to follow safe-distancing and other COVID-19 rules.

READ MORE: Kelowna ambassadors spreading COVID-19 safety and education practices at public beaches

The Downtown Kelowna Association also has its own ambassador program that not only puts more boots on the street but can offer information and assistance when needed, the City said.

“Through a coordinated approach among enforcement, health and social agencies, combined with the active participation of visitors and residents – especially during the COVID-19 pandemic – we can ensure that our community is a safe place for all to live, work and play,” the City's community safety director Darren Caul said in the release.

To report suspicious activity, call the RCMP non-emergency line at 250-762-3300, or call 911 if it’s an emergency.

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