Organizations dedicated to public safety like volunteer fire departments, search and rescue societies and community policing groups are encouraged to apply for B.C. government community gaming grants by Aug. 31, 2013, Community, Sport and Cultural Development Minister Coralee Oakes said today.

Last year, public safety organizations throughout B.C. shared over $7 million in community gaming grants. Public safety organizations provide diverse services in B.C. communities, while sharing a common commitment to protect people. Examples of projects supported through public safety community grants include:

• Canadian Avalanche Centre, Revelstoke: The centre provides short- and long-term information on weather and snow conditions, organizes avalanche workshops and supports avalanche awareness activities.
• Nelson Search and Rescue: The Nelson SAR uses gaming grant funds to provide first aid equipment, search and rescue training and avalanche backpack airbags for responder safety.
• Neighbours First (Foot Patrol) Program, Chinatown, Vancouver: Uniformed volunteers knowledgeable about local attractions and trained in first aid provide information and directions, while serving as goodwill ambassadors for the community.