DRUG FREE ZONES COMING IN SEPTEMBER

Approximately 10 people attended a public meeting regarding the Fernie
RCMP's proposed Drug Free Zones Thursday evening at Fernie Secondary.

The meeting was held to allow parents to offer input and ask questions
about the zones which will radiate for two blocks outwards from the city's
schools, skateboard park and Aquatic Centre. Started by FSS, it is hoped
DFZs will diminish illegal drug activity in the school and for that
two-block radius around them.

Once the zones are implemented, hopefully by September, people caught in
drug related crimes within the boundaries will be subject to double or
triple the finds and punishments for the same offences outside the zone.
Currently the committee is looking for financial support to the tune of
about $2,500 to help with the purchase of Drug Free Zone signs and marketing.

"We're doing this for the kids," Fernie RCMP Cst. Mike Casault says. "This
is to make safe zones for the kids so they are not exposed to drugs and not
being peer pressured into it."

FSS Vice Principal Don Rogers says since the idea surfaced a few months
back the community has offered their full support. "We have not had one
negative comment with respect to this initiative," he said.

For more information on the DFZs or to make a donation to the program,
contact the Fernie RCMP office. Sponsorship for DFZ signs is also available.