Dozens of front-line police officers and 911 operators are being recognized for their dedication during the treacherous winter storm that tore through Chatham-Kent in late December.
A total of 40 officers and 14 emergency communications operators will receive a Chief’s Commendation during a Chatham-Kent Police Services Board meeting on Wednesday for their efforts during the significant weather event that took place just days before Christmas.
On December 23, the winter storm brought significant snowfall and high winds that lasted for a lengthy period of time. The perilous conditions caused multiple collisions and left hundreds of people stranded within the municipality.
According to the CK Police Services Board, front-line officers worked tirelessly day and night throughout the storm in extreme conditions that included temperatures below -20 C, winds of up to 100 km/h, and near zero visibility due to the snowfall.
Officers worked beyond their scheduled shifts, rescuing dozens of people from the storm while still responding to 911 calls.
“Our front-line officers displayed true acts of heroism during the storm, putting their own lives at risk to keep our community safe,” said Police Chief Gary Conn in his commendation.
At the same time, the operators at the Emergency Communications Centre were inundated with more than 3,000 911 calls, including those from stranded motorists and concerned family members.
Like front-line officers, the emergency communication operators worked long days, leaving only to catch up on sleep at local hotels before returning to the same conditions.
“These members, both civilian and sworn, worked through perilous conditions over a prolonged period, putting the needs of others before their own,” said Conn. “Their response to the needs of our community without fear or hesitation, without a doubt saved numerous lives and built on the already strong level of public confidence and trust in our organization and with our community.”