A patrol program that was popular in the 1990s is making a comeback on the slopes at Lake Louise.
Eight ski trained RCMP officers are now patrolling the slopes at Lake Louise and officers say they'll have a presence at the resort on weekends throughout the ski season.
Corporal Jeff Campbell has worn the uniform for 17 years. Now he's wearing it on his day off at Lake Louise and his snow board is the newest piece of gear in his arsenal.
“We're on the hill not because of any incident that was pre-existing or anything like that, we're simply up here to increase the enjoyment and the family atmosphere at Lake Louise mountain resort,” said Campbell.
Campbell and seven other officers have been taking to the slopes on Friday's, Saturday's, Sunday's and long weekends since mid-December.
The team is always alert while at the resort and has an eye on the hill even when riding up the lift.
“I think it's great for everyone. Just knowing there's a police officer on the mountain be it staff be it the public or whatever, they're here. But the whole purpose of them being at the mountain is community good will,” said Michael Moynihan, Senior Sales and Marketing Manager for Lake Louise.
Moynihan says their presence is positive and also gives skiers a chance to meet and talk with the officers in a casual environment.
The RCMP officers say they are in constant communication with ski patrollers and hill staff and are also trained to assist with injured skiers.
A similar program is in effect at Nakiska.
