What you should know about hackable home security systems

CTV News Vancouver Consumer Reporter
Updated Feb. 22, 2022 8:24 p.m. PST
Published Feb. 22, 2022 5:19 p.m. PST

VANCOUVER -

Millions of us rely on home security systems for protection. But what if those security systems themselves are not so secure when it comes to attacks from hackers? Consumer Reports found that some of them can be disabled in a matter of seconds with a process called “jamming,” potentially putting you and your family at risk.

Jamming is when a burglar or hacker blocks the wireless signal of a door sensor, window sensor or motion sensor in a security system. That allows them to access your home without actually triggering the alarm.

In its latest tests, Consumer Reports found five home security systems susceptible to these types of attacks: Adobe Iota, Cove Home Security, Eufy 5-Piece Home Alarm Kit, Ring Alarm, and SimpliSafe the Essentials. Abode and SimpliSafe can detect jamming and will alert the homeowner that happens, but the alarms won’t trigger. The other systems offer no user alerts

Consumer Reports shared its findings with all of the security companies. Eufy was the only manufacturer that explicitly said it would fix the jamming risk in a future update. Cove said it “plans to add jam detection to its system next year, but likely as an optional feature.”

Consumer Reports says the good news is that jamming attacks are very rare, and security systems and other low-tech security solutions will often deter burglars.

If you own one of these systems, don’t feel the need to run out and replace it. Both the Ring and SimpliSafe systems perform well in other tests, including motion detection and ease of use and setup. Or consider a Kangaroo Front Door Security Kit, which wasn’t susceptible to CR’s jamming attacks.

If you want to beef up your home security system, consider adding some security cameras to the mix. They can record what’s happening and are not easily jammed.

No matter which alarm system you have, CR has one simple tip: Don’t use the branded yard signs or decals that came with it, because that could alert a hacker to your specific type of system. Instead, use generic signs and decals.

https://bc.ctvnews.ca/what-you-should-know-about-hackable-home-security-systems-1.5791983

Security company sees bump in demand amid rollout of B.C. vaccine passport

By Simon Little Global News
Posted September 16, 2021 5:31 pm
Updated September 16, 2021 7:36 pm

With questions lingering about how enforcement of B.C.’s COVID-19 vaccine passport program will be enforced, the security industry says it’s seeing an uptick in demand.

As of Monday, people attending restaurants, indoor sporting events, movie theatres and a range of other non-essential services must show proof of vaccination to enter.

It’s prompted concerns from industries such as the hospitality sector that their front-line staff will be left to enforce the rules, said Securiguard president Robin Chakrabarti.

“The demand for security professionals has gone up, we’ve received numerous enquiries form existing clients and prospective clients from them about helping them to manage their vaccine ambassador programs,” he said.

“It’s a variety of types of businesses, diverse industries and obviously people that are public facing and have clients, consumers and guests coming into various facilities where they need assistance managing this verification process.”

In the hospitality industry, it tends to be younger hosts and hostesses who would first greet guests, and may be on the receiving end of any negative reaction from someone who does not want to show their vaccine card, he said.

While the vast majority of would-be guests comply with the vaccine passport, he said, in the rare cases where they don’t security workers can cool the situation down.

“You don’t want emotions to get out of control,” he said. “The goal is to de-escalate, try to remove people from the situation together and then cooperate and listen to them and then move them on.”

Jeff Guignard, executive director of the Alliance of Beverage Licencees of B.C., said ahead of the vaccine card rollout, many businesses reported an uptick in abusive behaviour — but that things have generally been smooth since it went into place.

“We do have a vocal minority out there, those that think the appropriate place to express their frustration or disapproval of this is that a young staff member working on the front of the line, and that’s that’s just not acceptable,” he told CKNW’s The Mike Smyth Show.

“So in some cases where we’ve seen some of that the places have hired additional security just to keep the staff safe … but for the most part, British Columbians have been responsible.”

The province has said bylaw officers, police, gaming enforcement officers and conservation officers are all empowered to enforce COVID-19 regulations.

Fines for individuals can range from $230 for abusive behaviour to $575 for attending a non-compliant event.

How often those fines will be handed out, however remains to be seen.

License Inspectors and Bylaw Officers Association told Global News in a statement it had yet to recieve clear direction about how its officers would be involved.

“The provincial government has essentially mandate that bylaw officers assist through education, with little to no communication or consolation with the Association or local governments,” it said.

In Victoria, police have also warned they will be challenged to deal with COVID-19 enforcement issues.

“If things are at that escalated level, it’s going to be challenging for police to get there in any time of a timely manner, we have too many calls for service.”

The Ministry of Health says about 2.7 million people have downloaded their vaccine card so far.

As of Thursday, 86.3 per cent of eligible British Columbians had recieved at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine, and 78.8 per cent of those eligible were fully immunized.

The province says fully vaccinated people accounted for 23.9 per cent of new cases over the last week, but just 13.6 per cent of hospitalized patients over the past two weeks.

On Thursday, 93 per cent of people in B.C. intensive care units were not fully vaccinated.

-With files from Richard Zussman

© 2021 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.

https://globalnews.ca/news/8196591/security-company-sees-bump-in-demand-amid-rollout-of-b-c-vaccine-passport/

Home security checklist: 9 tips to keep your house safe from intruders

You don't even have to spend money to improve your home's security.

Erin Gobler April 7, 2021 5:00 a.m. PT

Lock your doors and windows

Locking your doors and windows is the first and easiest defense against home intruders, but how many of us are doing it consistently? Burglars are often looking for easy targets, and an unlocked door or window is just that. Even when you're home, it's good practice to keep them locked. And when you're leaving the house, double-check doors and first-floor windows to make sure they're all secured.

Some devices can also help you keep track of your entryways: door/window sensors can track whether a door or window has been left ajar, and smart locks can be scheduled to lock automatically at certain times. Which brings us to our next tip.

Upgrade your door locks

Locking your doors and windows may not be enough if you don't have high-quality locks. First, make sure all exterior doors have a deadbolt, making it more difficult for intruders to break in. While you're at it, make sure your door frames and hinges are strong enough to endure an attempted break-in -- older doors or exposed hinges can pose an unnecessary risk. Finally, as mentioned before, you can upgrade to smart locks, which you can engage remotely.

Invest in a home security system

Installing a home security system is one of the most effective ways to prevent intruders from entering and alert you if there's been a break-in. First, data shows that a home without a security system is roughly three times more likely to be broken into. If an intruder spots a security camera or a sign indicating you have a security system, they'll likely keep moving.

A home security system can also alert you when someone has broken into your home. Security cameras will alert you if there's movement in your yard or on your front porch, and door/window sensors will let you know if someone has entered your home. Depending on your security company, they may also alert law enforcement on your behalf.

Security systems also don't have to be expensive. There are plenty of great DIY security systems, in addition to stand-alone devices, out there you can install yourself on a budget.

Don't leave your valuables exposed

Some burglars may scope out potential targets ahead of time, ensuring they hit houses where they can get their hands on valuables. As a result, it's best to avoid keeping your expensive items where intruders can easily see them as they pass by. For example, avoid leaving expensive tools or bikes out in the open, and don't leave expensive electronics, purses, jewelry, etc. in front of open windows.

Light up your outdoor space

Burglars don't want to feel like they're on display when breaking into a home, and outdoor lights can help to do just that. Since these crimes are often ones of opportunity, outdoor lights may encourage the intruder to keep moving. Rather than keeping your outdoor light on all the time, consider investing in motion-sensor lights that light up the yard when they detect movement. The light will catch an intruder off-guard and potentially scare them off.

Secure your garage

People put a lot of effort into securing their homes but often forget entirely about their garages. Unfortunately, that can be an easy way to gain entrance into your home. First, be sure any regular doors and windows to your garage are locked. Next, consider keeping your garage door opener in the house rather than in your car where someone could steal it. Finally, you should also keep the interior door from your garage to your home locked. That way, if someone does gain entry into your garage, they still can't get into your home. 

As with door locks, buying a retrofit smart garage door opener is an option: these devices allow you to check the status of your garage while you're away, control it remotely and schedule it to shut at certain times.

Rethink your hidden spare key

If you have a hidden key under your doormat or flowerpot, it's time to rethink it. Intruders know these popular hiding places for spare keys, and those are the first places they'll look. If you must have a spare key outside your home, look for safer alternatives such as a concealed combination lockbox -- or at least a discreet location far from your doorway.

Make it look like someone is home

Most burglars don't want to enter your home when you're there. They'd rather find an empty home and be in and out as quickly as possible. Therefore, one of the best ways to prevent intruders is to make it look like someone is home at all times.

During the workday, this might include leaving an interior light or the TV on. When you're gone for a longer period of time such as a vacation, make sure to have a neighbor or family member collect your mail, since mail piling up can be a giveaway that the homeowner is gone for a while.

Smart lights can create an even more convincing effect: Many can be programmed to turn on and off periodically to simulate a person being home.

Keep valuables in a safe

In a perfect world, intruders would never make it into your home, and so you'd never have to worry about your valuables being stolen. Unfortunately, even the best-laid plans can go astray. And on the off-chance that an intruder does make it into your home, you want to make sure they can steal as little as possible.

First, consider buying a safe or lockbox where you can keep things like cash, jewelry, important documents, and other items you wouldn't want a thief to walk away with. As far as bigger items such as electronics, you can make them more difficult to steal by putting them in a concealed place when you aren't using them. Thieves want to be in and out of your home as quickly as possible, so even the smallest deterrent can help.

The bottom line

No one wants to become the victim of a home intrusion. Implementing the tips on this checklist will help discourage and prevent burglars and keep your family and belongings safe. You can start small and pick just a couple of things on this list to focus on. Once you've got those down, you can move onto other items on the checklist. Each small improvement you make will ensure your home is that much more secure.

https://www.cnet.com/home/security/home-security-checklist-9-tips-to-keep-your-house-safe-from-intruders/

Security footage of suspect in unprovoked attack released by Vancouver police

24-year-old was attacked from behind as she walked home on Saturday, police say
CBC News · Posted: Feb 16, 2021 1:57 PM PT | Last Updated: February 16

Police released security footage of a suspect who allegedly attacked a woman in Vancouver's West End on Feb. 13, 2021. (Vancouver Police Department)

Police have released security footage of a man suspected of attacking a woman unprovoked in Vancouver's West End on Saturday. Officers are hoping someone can identify the suspect.

The woman, who had been shopping on Davie Street, was tackled from behind at 9:40 p.m. PT as she walked down Maxine Lane, which is the south lane of Burnaby Street. The man grabbed her from behind and they both fell to the ground.

The 24-year-old woman screamed and the suspect ran off toward Bute Street.

"This investigation has undoubtedly created concern in the community," Const. Tania Visintin wrote in a statement. "We want to identify this individual as soon as possible. Investigators ask everyone to take a good look at this footage, and to call us if they know who this is."

Police said in a statement Tuesday the suspect is believed to be white, about five feet 11 inches tall and in his mid 40s. He was wearing a waist-length black leather jacket, dark pants and a dark face mask.

Anyone with information is asked to call VPD's Special Investigations Section at 604-717-0602 or CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-8466.

Bus trip to Whistler among recent travel-related COVID-19 exposure warnings posted in B.C.

Alyse Kotyk Reporter, CTVNewsVancouver.ca 
@AlyseKotyk Contact
Published Tuesday, February 9, 2021 12:50PM PST

Travellers at Vancouver International Airport are seen on Oct. 1, 2020.

VANCOUVER -- Several more flights have been added to the B.C. Centre for Disease Control's COVID-19 exposure warning list, along with one bus trip in the Lower Mainland.

Details about six flights and the bus trip were posted by the B.C. Centre for Disease Control on Sunday and Monday.

The bus, operated by Epic Rides Bus Line, departed from Vancouver for Whistler on Jan. 29.

The resort town has recently experienced a spike in COVID-19 cases, with 547 cases of the disease recorded between Jan. 1 and Feb. 2. That's more than double the 271 cases recorded in the municipality throughout all of 2020.

In addition, the flights in and out of B.C. most recently added to the exposure warning list are:

• Feb. 1: Lufthansa flight 492/Air Canada flight 9101 from Frankfurt to Vancouver

• Feb. 1: Air Canada flight 223 from Calgary to Vancouver

• Feb. 2: Air Canada flight 554 from Vancouver to Los Angeles

• Feb. 3: AerioMexico flight 696 from Mexico City to Vancouver

• Feb. 4: Air Canada flight 115 from Toronto to Vancouver

• Feb. 6: KLM flight 681 from Amsterdam to Vancouver

Domestic travellers are not required to quarantine in B.C., but health officials have advised against non-essential travel within Canada for months.

Anyone arriving internationally, however, must quarantine for 14 days upon arrival. They're also required to present proof of a negative COVID-19 test before boarding their flight, but that test can be taken up to 72 hours before they take off.

Anyone who was on one of the affected flights should self-monitor for symptoms of COVID-19, seeking testing and self-isolating if any develop.

B.C. health officials do not directly contact everyone who was on a flight with a confirmed case of COVID-19. Instead, public notifications are posted on the BCCDC's website. 

Man allegedly chased people with knife in New Westminster; assault charges laid

Alyse Kotyk Reporter, CTVNewsVancouver.ca 
@AlyseKotyk Contact
Published Monday, February 1, 2021 11:46AM PST

New Westminster police. (New Westminster Police/Facebook)

NEW WESTMINSTER, B.C. -- A man has been charged after allegedly chasing two people in New Westminster with a knife late last month, police say.

According to the New Westminster Police Department, officers were called at about 7:30 p.m. on Jan. 21. A man and his friend were walking along 8th Street, when another man they didn't know allegedly began chasing them with a knife.

Officers arrived on scene and found the man "by following the sounds of screaming," the department said.

Police say when they found him, the man was carrying a 10-inch knife. They told the man to drop the weapon and he was arrested without incident.

"These men did the right thing in calling 911," said Sgt. Sanjay Kumar in a news release.

"If you see someone with what you believe to be a weapon and their behaviour is making you fear for your safety, call us right away."

A 31-year-old New Westminster resident, Aaron Smith, was charged with two counts of assault with a weapon.

Anyone with more information on the incident is asked to call NWPD at 604-525-5411. 

Richmond shooting: 'Exchange of gunfire' between 2 vehicles; witnesses sought

Kendra Mangione Producer, CTVNewsVancouver.ca
@kendramangione Contact
Published Monday, February 1, 2021 1:18PM PST

RCMP (File - Sean Amato/CTV News)

VANCOUVER -- Police are looking for witnesses following an early-morning shooting in Richmond.

In a statement Monday morning, the Richmond RCMP said officers were called to a residential area in the east at 12:30 a.m.

According to Mounties, reports suggest there was an "exchange of gunfire between the occupants of two separate vehicles" on Chaldecott Drive near Rathburn Drive.

The drivers and any passengers of the vehicles sped off as police arrived, the RCMP said.

It is early in the investigation, but so far there have been no reports of injuries.

In the RCMP statement, Cpl. Ian Henderson said officers will be in the area Monday speaking to those who live near the scene.

"Police are asking witnesses to come forward. Residents in the area are also encouraged to check their home surveillance and vehicle dash cams to see if they may have captured the incident on video," Henderson said.

Those with more information are asked to call police or Crime Stoppers. The file number is 2021-2939.

Victim called 911 after targeted shooting in Langley parkade, RCMP say

Maria Weisgarber Multi-skilled Journalist, CTV News Vancouver
@ctv_mariaw Contact
Published Monday, January 18, 2021 4:52PM PST

Police respond to a 911 call after a man was shot in the parkade of a residential building in Langley in the early hours of Jan. 18, 2021.

LANGLEY, B.C. -- A man who was shot multiple times in the underground parkade of a residential building in Langley made the 911 call that brought emergency crews to his aid, according to the RCMP.

The 27 year-old Langley resident was rushed to hospital with critical injuries following the shooting, which police believe was targeted. It happened at a condo complex on 201A Street and 56th Avenue. The man is expected to survive.

Cpl. Holly Largy with Langley RCMP said the 911 call came in just after midnight in the early hours of Monday morning and police were not able to get much information from the man before he was taken in for surgery, however he is known to them. 

“I don’t want to say we’re at a standstill, but we have to wait until we can speak to the victim,“ she said. “So a good chunk of the evidence we’re going to get and where we go from here, our next steps, are going to come from that interview.” 

Cpl. Largy said it was too early to say if the shooting is part of the ongoing and deadly Metro Vancouver gang conflict, which has been linked to a number of recent shootings. 

“Anytime we have a shooting, it’s concerning. This one, more concerning because we’re inside a residential building,” she said. “It just goes to show that the people involved in this conflict don’t care.”

Investigators will be canvassing the area looking for any video evidence, and they’re asking anyone with dash cam video or their own security video to get in touch. 

Anyone with information is asked to call Langley RCMP at 604-532-3200. Tips can also be left anonymously with Crime Stoppers.

Vancouver police search for suspect, victim after homeless woman's blankets set on fire while she slept

Maria Weisgarber Multi-skilled Journalist, CTV News Vancouver
@ctv_mariaw Contact
Published Tuesday, January 12, 2021 12:09PM PST

VANCOUVER -- Vancouver Police are looking for the public's help to track down a suspect after a homeless woman's blankets were set on fire while she was sleeping.

The arson happened on Dec. 13 around 4 a.m. In a news release, Sgt. Steve Addison said luckily the woman woke up just in time to put out the flames.

"A few more seconds and this could have been tragic," he said.

Security video released by the police showed a man wearing what's described as a "unique black and white Oakland Raiders jacket" approach the victim, who was sleeping on Hamilton Street near the Queen Elizabeth Theatre.

The video shows him crouched down, and then a bright flame appears before he walks away. In a subsequent image from the video, the flames have grown much larger and the woman is seen walking around the fire.

Police said the woman has not reported the incident to police, and has not yet been located, but they are hoping to speak to her. They described her as being in her 30s, with dark shoulder-length hair. At the time, she was wearing a grey, full-length button-up jacket.

They said the suspect is white, between 35 and 50 years old, between 5'5" and 5'10".

"This was a shocking attack that targeted a vulnerable member of our community, and we hope the public can help solve this crime," Addison said in the emailed release.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Major Crime Section at 604-717-2541 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-669-8477.  

Suspicious package investigation temporarily suspends SeaBus service in Vancouver

Alyse Kotyk Reporter, CTVNewsVancouver.ca 
@AlyseKotyk Contact
Published Tuesday, January 12, 2021 8:15AM PST
Last Updated Tuesday, January 12, 2021 9:01AM PST

Waterfront Station in Vancouver on Jan. 12, 2021.

VANCOUVER -- The SeaBus connecting downtown Vancouver to the North Shore was temporarily suspended Tuesday morning while police investigated a suspicious package at Waterfront Station.

Metro Vancouver Transit Police tweeted shortly before 8 a.m. that the station was closed. About 30 minutes later, TransLink tweeted that all services had resumed. 

Transit police told CTV News the closure was due to a suspicious package that turned out to be some scrap metal. 

During the temporary closure the Expo Line and Canada Line were both still operating and a bus bridge was set up on Cordova Street for those heading to North Vancouver.   

Vancouver police shut down private party with 100 attendees on New Year's Eve

Ian HollidayReporter, CTVNewsVancouver.ca @Ian_Holliday Contact
Published Friday, January 1, 2021 4:15PM PST
Last Updated Saturday, January 2, 2021 10:07AM PST

VANCOUVER -- Police in Vancouver say they found about 100 people at a private party at a downtown restaurant Thursday night, one of 34 calls for alleged violations of the provincial ban on gatherings officers responded to on New Year's Eve.

Vancouver police were called to the party near the intersection of Granville and Davie streets around 11 p.m., according to a news release from the Vancouver Police Department.

Officers broke up the closed-door event and issued a $2,300 ticket to the organizer for violating B.C.'s public health order banning gatherings.

The ticket was one of four police issued to event organizers for allegedly breaking the province's COVID-19 rules Thursday night.

Extra police officers were deployed to entertainment districts and to look out for impaired driving on New Year's Eve, police said.

In addition to the 34 calls about potential public health order violations, officers also dealt with a pair of assaults and arrested a woman at a protest at the Vancouver Art Gallery after she allegedly bit an officer. 

The first assault occurred around 6 p.m. near Granville and Helmcken streets, police said.

According to police, the suspect walked up to the victim, who he did not know, and slashed them in the face with a machete. The victim was taken to hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries, and the suspect was arrested, police said.

The second assault was reported about an hour later, around 7 p.m.

In that incident, which happened near Granville and Davie streets, "the suspect put a metal object to the victim's neck and said, 'You are my enemy,'" police said.

The suspect and the victim were not known to each other, and officers were unable to locate the suspect, police said.

Finally, around 11:30 p.m., police were called to the art gallery because a protester was climbing on top of one of the statues there.

"While police were escorting her off the property, she bit one of the officers," police said in their release. "The woman was charged for assaulting a police officer."

Police did not attempt to break up the protest at the art gallery, a decision they said was based on the need for officers to "weigh a citizen’s right to peacefully protest with the current potential harm of gatherings."

“Mass arrests are not possible or desirable," the Vancouver Police Department said in a statement to CTV News. "Ticketing and arrests could escalate an already passionate situation, and when there are larger groups of people, the risk of injury to both protesters and police officers rises.” 

Wind, rainfall warnings issued for Metro Vancouver for Tuesday

CTVNewsVancouver.ca Staff
Contact
Published Monday, January 4, 2021 4:30PM PST

Environment Canada issued two warnings for wind and rain Monday afternoon, saying an intense front will approach Vancouver Island early Tuesday and move east.

VANCOUVER -- Tuesday is set to be wet and windy across Metro Vancouver.

Environment Canada issued two warnings Monday afternoon, saying an intense front will approach Vancouver Island early Tuesday and move east.

“This will bring rain and wind for most of Tuesday with the heaviest rain expected in the afternoon and evening,” the warning says.

Strong winds are set to begin around noon Tuesday and ease later in the evening. Speeds of around 70 km/h are expected near exposed coastal areas.

Heavy rain will also begin around late morning over the North Shore, Coquitlam and Maple Ridge. It's expected some areas could see up to 60 millimetres of rain by late evening.

Environment Canada is warning of possible localized flooding in low-lying areas.

The rain is set to end by early Wednesday morning.

Suspicious fire behind Delta thrift store under police investigation

Alyse Kotyk Reporter, CTVNewsVancouver.ca 
@AlyseKotyk Contact
Published Monday, December 28, 2020 11:11AM PST

Police in Delta say they're investigating a fire from Dec. 27, 2020. (Heather Fuhrman/Submitted)

VANCOUVER -- Police in Delta say they're investigating a suspicious fire that damaged a thrift store.

Officers were called to Delta Street near 48 Avenue in Ladner at about 11 Sunday night after a fire was started in a dumpster behind a building. 

The rear wall and roof of the building eventually caught fire before it was extinguished. The thrift store was most significantly impacted, but other nearby units were also damaged by smoke.

"Fortunately there was no one who had to be evacuated from the property, and no one was reported injured during this incident," said Cris Leykauf, spokesperson for Delta police, in a news release. 

The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but police are calling the blaze suspicious. 

Anyone who was in the area and saw suspicious behaviour or anyone with dash cam video is asked to contact Delta police at 604-946-4411. 

Pedestrian dies after being hit by a vehicle at a crosswalk in Richmond

Angela Jung
Published Sunday, December 27, 2020 4:07PM PST
Last Updated Sunday, December 27, 2020 6:39PM PST

VANCOUVER -- A woman who was hit by a vehicle while crossing at a marked crosswalk and has died from the injuries, according to Richmond RCMP.

It happened just before 5:30 p.m. Saturday near No. 2 Road and Andrews Road in Richmond, prompting officers to cordon off the area for several hours as they investigated.

Cst. Kenneth Lau said the pedestrian was walking in the marked crosswalk when she was hit.

She was taken to a nearby hospital with serious injuries but has since died.

“A very unfortunate situation for everyone involved, but my thoughts are primarily with the victim's family and the victim, and also the driver because it is a tragic event and I'm sure nobody has the intention to go out and be involved in anything like this,” Lau told CTV News.

A silver SUV with flashing hazard lights could be seen between police tape at the scene of the accident on Saturday.

Lau said the driver is cooperating with police, and said speed and alcohol have been ruled out.

The cause of the crash is under investigation.

“This is a season where we all have to be extra careful, because the road conditions aren't ideal, the sun goes down earlier at night so there are driver visibility issues” he said.

“Drivers please take the extra time to slow down as you approach the intersection to give yourself more reaction time. Make sure you look for pedestrians and make eye contact with them.”

According to a BC Coroners Service report, over the last decade, January, November and December are the months which see the highest number of deadly pedestrian-involved collisions.

The Richmond RCMP Criminal Collision Investigation Team has taken over the investigation and the Integrated Construction Analysis and Reconstruction Service is assisting.

Any witnesses and drivers with dash-cam video are asked to contact Richmond RCMP at 604-278-1212 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 to leave an anonymous tip.

Shoppers Drug Mart gauging interest in providing rapid COVID-19 testing to businesses

David MolkoSenior Reporter, CTV News Vancouver
@molkoreports Contact
Published Wednesday, December 16, 2020 1:35PM PST

VANCOUVER -- Pharmacy giant Shoppers Drug Mart has reached out to Canadian businesses to gauge interest in a COVID-19 rapid testing program that could launch as soon as January 2021.

The program, which the company’s “Health Solutions by Shoppers” division is exploring, is being pitched as a way for companies to bring employees back to work safely, according to a digital presentation slide obtained by CTV News Vancouver.

The slide, which says the program would be funded by employers with a minimum of a one-month commitment, promises COVID-19 results in 15 minutes, with positive results to be followed-up with PCR (laboratory) testing.

It indicates that Shoppers is considering using the Abbott COVID-19 Panbio Antigen test for the program, which Health Canada approved for use in October.

At the time, Ottawa signed a deal to obtain more than 20 million of the so-called “point-of-care” tests.

Catherine Thomas, senior director of external communications with parent company Loblaws, declined a CTV News request for an interview because, she said, the program is “not live.”

“Our health solutions team has been reaching out to some of our business partners to gauge their interest to understand if a program like this would be relevant to a broader group,” Thomas wrote in an email.

Thomas also explained the initial outreach was to a “few companies” and “at this point B.C. is not an area of focus.”

Infectious disease expert Dr. Brian Conway called the antigen test “very useful” and a “powerful tool to help us in the public health response,” indicating a similar test had been used as part of the NHL bubble.

Conway, who is the medical director of the Vancouver Infectious Diseases Centre, said the antigen test is analogous to the “gold-standard” PCR tests currently being performed in British Columbia, but doesn’t require a lab to process.

But, Conway cautioned, the rapid test appears to be less “sensitive,” meaning in people who don’t have symptoms but have COVID-19, the test may only detect the infection about 70 per cent of the time.

Conway said the rapid test could be useful for employers to quickly track chains of transmission and isolate individuals, once an individual has tested positive by standard lab testing, but that he would not recommend companies use it as a health-screening tool.

Conway also pointed out that the results of any point-of-care test would need to be used wisely.

“The danger of using this test more widely, especially in people who have no symptoms, is that it will be taken as a license to not follow current public health recommendations,” Conway said.

He added that everyone should continue to follow all public health guidelines until at least a majority of people have received a COVID-19 vaccine.

According to the manufacturer, Abbott, the test requires a nasal or nasopharyngeal swab, and a self-contained tube with a “break off” swab minimizes exposure risks.

Results appear in the form of lines on the display panel of a single-use cartridge within 15 minutes.  

Multi-vehicle collision involving Vancouver police cruiser sends several to hospital

By John Copsey Global News
Posted December 17, 2020 10:24 pm

A multi-vehicle collision involving a police cruiser on Vancouver’s west side sent a number of people to hospital Thursday evening.

Vancouver police spokesperson Const. Tania Visintin told Global News that officers in an unmarked police car were driving with lights and sirens on to a domestic assault in progress.

While en route, a collision occurred on West Broadway near Burrard Street between a police vehicle and a civilian vehicle, Visintin said.

Everyone involved sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to hospital for assessment.

Vancouver property taxes will be hiked the maximum amount recommended in 2021

Kendra Mangione Producer, CTVNewsVancouver.ca
@kendramangione Contact
Published Wednesday, December 9, 2020 9:49AM PST
Last Updated Wednesday, December 9, 2020 1:22PM PST

VANCOUVER -- Homeowners in B.C.'s most populous city will be paying higher property taxes in the coming year.

The City of Vancouver approved Tuesday an operating budget of $1.6 billion for 2021, which includes a five per cent property tax hike.

Council had been asked to consider hikes of three per cent, 4.3 per cent and five per cent. The lower increases would mean fewer city services and projects, and the lowest would mean layoffs, those behind the report suggested.

Councillors opted for the highest hike, which will account for a half per cent property tax change going from non-residential to residential buildings.

Here are some examples of how much more homeowners can expect to pay this year:

• For a single-family home assessed at $1.6 million, taxes will go up by $146;

• Owners of a condo assessed at $688,000 will pay $64 more; and

• A commercial property assessed at $1 million will cost $166 more in taxes.

How much someone actually pays will be based on the assessed value of their property and those nearby, and these estimates are just property tax, and don't include other costs like utility fees and school taxes.

The latest budget is $19 million less than 2020's, or about one per cent lower.

Vancouver Mayor Kennedy Stewart said earlier this year he'd been expecting $60 million from the federal government to help avoid going into debt due to expenses related to COVID-19. Instead, the city will be getting just $16 million from Ottawa.

Initial estimates suggested the only way Vancouver could stay out of debt without going into its reserves was with a 12 per cent property tax hike – an option that was not considered. Instead, the city says it's expecting to use $34 million of reserve funding to offset the budget shortfall.

Stewart noted he felt a seven per cent property tax increase last year was too high, and he did not want to go above five per cent this year.

Even with the increase, some projects and initiatives will be put off, and service impacts are expected.

“You can see where this property tax discussion comes down to. If we go too much lower than five per cent we’ll have to cut services which would include police, library, park board, engineering. So it’s a really tough balance, I think we have hit it," Stewart told CTV News Wendesday.

“I know not all councillors are happy with that, but in the middle of COVID I think we did the best we could do."

Winter break extension: B.C. universities delay return to class amid COVID-19 pandemic

Alyse Kotyk Reporter, CTVNewsVancouver.ca 
@AlyseKotyk Contact
Published Monday, December 7, 2020 1:56PM PST

Simon Fraser University is seen in the photo taken from CTV News Vancouver's Chopper 9 in June 2019. (Pete Cline)

VANCOUVER -- With winter break approaching for colleges and universities, some institutions are choosing to extend the time off amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Last week, the University of British Columbia announced it'll extend its winter break later into January in an effort to "alleviate the pressure" on the community.  

The term at UBC will start on Jan. 11 for most students at both the Vancouver and Okanagan campuses, rather than Jan 4. Some programs that can't accommodate a late start will stick to their original schedule, however. 

Capilano University also announced last Thursday it's extending its winter break by a week to Jan. 11. 

Reading break will not be delayed, however, and will still be during the week of Feb. 15, the university said in a statement. The terms also won't be condensed, and the last day of classes will be April 16. 

"This one-week delayed start provides faculty with additional time to prepare for the beginning of the new term in a remote, adapted model and for university staff and administrators to contribute to a smooth start to the term," the university's statement said. 

"Students will have a longer break between terms to rejuvenate, and more time to prepare for classes."

Late last month, Simon Fraser University announced its own winter break extension, also to Jan. 11. 

"We recognize everyone is tired as we deal with the changes this pandemic has brought to how we teach, how you learn, and how we all connect with each other," said a statement from the school's academic vice president, Dr. Catherine Dauvergne.

"Delaying the start of classes will give you more time over the winter break to rest and reconnect with family and friends."

The delay means exams will start a bit later, as will the summer term.

Previously, the University of Northern British Columbia said it wouldn't extend the winter break, citing concerns it could disrupt the schedule and cause further stress. But in a statement on Monday, Geoff Payne, interim president, said staff is rethinking the January start date and is a proposing a delay to the university's senate. 

"There is no perfect decision in these very uncertain and difficult times; know that I, along with the executive team strive to balance the ever-changing circumstances and information to make the best decisions for our entire community," Payne said in a statement. 

That meeting and vote with the senate is expected to take place this week. 

So far, Langara College, BCIT, Vancouver Community College and Kwantlen Polytechnic University have not announced winter break extensions. Many courses at those institutions will be offered online for the term, however. 

Public elementary schools and high schools also haven't announced changes to their winter break, though B.C.'s top doctor has repeatedly said officials are looking at all options. 

"It's incredibly important for families and for children to have in-person, in-class (education), but we're looking at all of our options," Henry said in a news conference last month about the possibility of a longer break.

With files from The Canadian Press 

British Columbians could be fined $230 for not wearing a mask in indoor, public spaces

By Richard Zussman Global News
Posted November 24, 2020 5:15 pm

Anyone who is caught without a mask in an indoor public place or who refuses to comply with the mandatory mask policy in B.C. will be handed a $230 fine.

The province made the announcement Tuesday afternoon, as health officials reported a staggering 941 new cases of COVID-19 and 10 new deaths.

As of Nov. 19, masks are required to be worn in almost all indoor public places.

A fine can also be issued if someone refuses to leave a public place or responds with abusive or belligerent behaviour when asked to wear a mask where required.

“These measures give police and other enforcement officials the tools to intervene with and penalize problematic individuals and groups,” Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth said.

“Businesses should provide signage on the mandatory mask policy and inform customers about the requirement. Of course, despite any range of efforts, some people will break the rules knowing full well what they’re doing.”

The law requires people to wear masks in the following places:

• Malls, shopping centres, coffee shops, and retail and grocery stores

• Liquor and drug stores

• Airports, city halls, libraries, and community and recreation centres

• Restaurants, pubs and bars

• Places of public worship

• On public transit and in a taxi or ride-sharing vehicle

• Common areas of office buildings, courthouses, hospitals and hotels

• Common areas of sport and fitness centres when not engaged in physical activity

• Common areas of post-secondary institutions and non-profit organizations

Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry was reluctant to put in a mandatory mask policy but decided to support the policy after concerns were raised by businesses about enforcing a mask requirement.

Working with public health officials, Emergency Management BC anticipates issuing further orders to enforce requirements for masks in common areas of apartment buildings, condos and workplaces.

The law defines a mask or face covering as a medical or non-medical mask that covers the nose and mouth. Face shields are not a substitute for a mask, as there is an opening below the mouth.

Anyone 12 years of age and older will be legally required to wear a mask. Those over the age of 2 years old are being encouraged to wear a mask but are not legally required.

People who cannot wear a mask or who cannot put on or remove a mask without the assistance of others are exempt. The province notes a person may not be able to wear a mask for a psychological, behavioural or health condition, or due to a physical, cognitive or mental impairment.

Masks may be removed temporarily in indoor public places to identify the individual wearing the mask, to consume food or beverage at a location designated for this purpose, while participating in a sport or fitness activity in a sport facility or while receiving a personal or health service that requires the mask to be removed.

“Education is key, which is why we’re having businesses review their plans and getting the word out to communities in several languages,” Farnworth said.

“Businesses should provide signage on the mandatory mask policy and inform customers about the requirement. Of course, despite any range of efforts, some people will break the rules knowing full well what they’re doing. These measures give police and other enforcement officials the tools to intervene with and penalize problematic individuals and groups.”

To report non-emergency contraventions of this mask order, people are asked to contact their local government’s bylaw office.

Local bylaw officers can help follow-up on concerns and engage police departments and WorkSafe BC as necessary.

If they are unable to reach a local bylaw office, they can contact their local police department’s non-emergency line. Police may be called if someone has become threatening or abusive in response to a request to put on a mask.

Masks are not recommended for children under the age of two, but should be encouraged for children aged two to 12 in public settings. Children over 12 must wear a mask in a public indoor space, unless they are exempt.

Between Aug. 21 and Nov. 20, 59 violation tickets were issued for other COVID-related infractions.

This including 25 $2,300 tickets to owners or organizers contravening the PHO’s order on gatherings and events, nine $2,300 violation tickets for contravention of the PHO Food and Liquor Serving Premises Order and 25 $230 tickets issued to individuals who refuse to comply with direction from law enforcement.

COVID-19 exposures: Multiple warning notices posted for B.C. grocery stores and pharmacies

Alyse Kotyk Reporter, CTVNewsVancouver.ca 
Published Tuesday, November 17, 2020 11:19AM PST
Last Updated Tuesday, November 17, 2020 11:46AM PST

Man cleans shopping cart in this undated image. (Shutterstock)

VANCOUVER -- Several COVID-19 exposure notices have been posted online for B.C. grocery stores in the past few days.

Parent companies Sobeys and Loblaws posted multiple notices each, warning customers that employees have tested positive for the disease at some of their stores.

The latest warnings are for:

• Shoppers Drug Mart at 20159 88th Ave. in Langley. A notice was posted on Nov. 14; the employee last worked on Nov. 9.

• FreshCo at 7450 120 St. in Surrey. A notice was posted on Nov. 14; the employee last worked on Nov. 10.

• FreshCo at 32500 Fraser Way in Abbotsford. A notice was posted on Nov. 15; the employee last worked on Nov. 11.

• FreshCo at 7165 138 St. in Surrey. A notice was posted on Nov. 15; the employee last worked on Nov. 8.

• Real Canadian Superstore at 45779 Luckakuck Way in Chilliwack. A notice was posted on Nov. 16; the employee last worked on Nov. 9.

• Real Canadian Superstore at 333 Seymour Blvd. in North Vancouver. A notice was posted on Nov. 16; the employee last worked on Nov. 9.

• No Frills at 3455 Johnston Rd. in Port Alberni. A notice was posted on Nov. 16; the employee last worked on Nov. 13.

• Independent Grocer at 1255 Davie St. in Vancouver. A notice was posted on Nov. 16; the employee last worked on Nov. 6.

• Real Canadian Superstore at 2855 Gladwin Rd. in Abbotsford. A notice was posted on Nov. 16; the employee last worked on Nov. 13.

• Real Canadian Superstore at 19851 Willowbrook Dr. A notice was posted on Nov. 17 about four team members who last worked on Nov. 6, Nov. 9, Nov. 10 and Nov. 13.

• Shoppers Drug Mart at 6060 Minoru Blvd. in Richmond. A notice was posted on Nov. 17; the employee last worked on Nov. 7.

While B.C.'s health officials have imposed temporary restrictions across the Vancouver Coastal Health and Fraser Health regions, many businesses are still open. 

Dr. Bonnie Henry's latest public health order applies to group fitness classes, but the top doctor said last week the vast majority of businesses "can and should continue to stay open with their safety measures in place."

Under that new order, however, businesses must review their health and safety plans to ensure they protect workers and customers from COVID-19. Businesses are also encouraged to keep their employees working from home whenever possible.  

COVID-19 safety plans must include measures to prevent crowding in high-risk spaces including elevators, lobbies, stairwells, corridors, bathrooms, break rooms and kitchens.