The city of Lethbridge, Alberta, experienced two high-risk incidents within hours of each other on Monday, prompting residents on the north side to be placed on high alert. While details surrounding the incidents remain scarce, two individuals were apprehended by law enforcement. This occurrence underscores the inherent challenges faced by emergency responders and has catalyzed a significant shift in the city’s approach to handling such situations. Looking ahead to 2025, Lethbridge is implementing a new collaborative strategy between its police and fire/EMS departments, aimed at bolstering safety and efficiency in responding to high-risk events.
Central to this new approach is the introduction of a Tactical Emergency Medical Services (TEMS) team. This specialized unit will be composed of paramedics trained to operate alongside the Lethbridge Police Service (LPS) in high-risk environments. The TEMS team will be integrated into LPS operations, accompanying officers to critical incidents and providing immediate medical support in situations where traditional EMS access might be delayed or compromised. This collaborative model is expected to improve the safety of both police officers and civilians involved in high-risk occurrences. The close proximity of medical personnel will allow for quicker intervention and potentially mitigate the severity of injuries or medical emergencies that may arise. Furthermore, the integrated training between police and TEMS personnel will foster a more cohesive and effective response strategy, minimizing duplication of effort and maximizing resource utilization.
The establishment of the TEMS team represents a significant strengthening of the bond between Lethbridge’s emergency services. Lethbridge Police Service Chief Shahin Mehdizadeh expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, highlighting the enhanced interdepartmental relationships and improved efficiency in responding to critical incidents. He emphasized the unified nature of the new approach, stating that the two departments are effectively functioning as a single, integrated team during crises. This shift in operational philosophy reflects a recognition of the interconnectedness of policing and emergency medical services, particularly in high-stress, time-sensitive situations.
Despite the two high-risk incidents and the discovery of two bodies in the final week of 2024, Lethbridge Police Chief Mehdizadeh reported an overall decrease in crime and a lower Crime Severity Index (CSI) for the year. The specific details of these statistics are yet to be released to the public, but Chief Mehdizadeh expressed eagerness to share the positive trends with the community. This downward trend in crime, coupled with the implementation of the TEMS team, suggests a multifaceted approach to public safety in Lethbridge, addressing both immediate emergencies and underlying societal issues that contribute to criminal activity.
Echoing the positive developments within the LPS, Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services (LFES) Chief Greg Adair reported a 10-15% reduction in EMS call volume in 2024 compared to the previous year. This reduction in demand for emergency medical services could be attributed to a variety of factors, including improved public health measures, increased access to preventative care, or a shift in community demographics. Both chiefs, however, attributed much of the positive changes to successful recruitment efforts. LPS welcomed nearly 30 new personnel in 2024, significantly bolstering their ranks. LFES anticipates adding more than 10 new members in 2025, pending attrition rates. This expansion of both departments is expected to further enhance their capabilities and responsiveness, ultimately leading to improved service delivery for Lethbridge residents.
The increased staffing levels within the police department will translate into a more visible presence, particularly in the downtown core. Chief Mehdizadeh underscored the commitment of the LPS to creating a safe and prosperous city for all residents. The increased police presence is intended to deter criminal activity, enhance community engagement, and foster a sense of security among residents, particularly in areas where crime rates have historically been higher. This proactive approach to policing, combined with the reactive capabilities of the new TEMS team, showcases a comprehensive strategy aimed at addressing public safety concerns in Lethbridge. The combined efforts of LPS and LFES, along with the positive trends in crime reduction and EMS call volume, point towards a promising outlook for public safety in Lethbridge in 2025.
