RCMP Officers working across southern Manitoba may be seen wearing masks in the coming weeks and months.

In accordance with public health advice, front-line police officers are being given non-medical masks to wear while on duty in situations where physical distancing is difficult or unpredictable. Recognizing that some members of the public may be uncomfortable interacting with masked officers, all RCMP are now required to carry some form of identification with them at all times. For this reason, officers will be sporting some combination of badges, photo IDs, name tags, and/or RCMP business cards to verify their identity. If people being served by a member of the RCMP are doubtful of their office, they can ask to see this identification and it will be provided, assuming it is safe to do so.

The RCMP released a statement on Monday, explaining the decision.

“Wearing non-medical masks as a courtesy to your fellow community members is becoming more common. In an effort to limit the spread of COVID-19, the RCMP is taking these additional steps so that the public can feel comfortable in engaging with police officers in their community.”