Lane closures on Toronto's Lake Shore Boulevard

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:

==========================================

News Release:  May 20, 2014

Lane closures on Toronto's Lake Shore Boulevard

A series of intermittent lane closures will take place on Lake Shore Boulevard starting tomorrow. The lane closures will occur from May 21 to mid July for critical utility work prior to the resurfacing of Lake Shore Boulevard in preparation for the Toronto 2015 Pan Am/Parapan Am Games.

The following areas will experience intermittent westbound lane closures from 6 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.:

• Yonge Street to west of Rees Street

• Bathurst Street to British Columbia Road 

• Parkside Drive to Windermere Avenue

The section between British Columbia Road and Lower Spadina Avenue will experience intermittent eastbound lane closures from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

In an effort to minimize disruption, most of the work will take place during non-rush-hour periods. The contractor will work some weekends and evenings to accelerate the completion of the work.

This work was planned for the roadway prior to the scheduling of the work that is currently taking place on the Gardiner Expressway. The work must be completed before the beginning of overnight closures for road resurfacing on Lake Shore Boulevard that will begin in July.

This news release is also available on the City's website: http://bitly.com/SeQglY

Toronto is Canada's largest city, the fourth largest in North America, and home to a diverse population of about 2.8 million people. It is a global centre for business, finance, arts and culture and is consistently ranked one of the world's most livable cities. Toronto is proud to be the Host City for the 2015 Pan American and Parapan American Games. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can visit http://www.toronto.ca, call 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or follow us @TorontoComms.

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Media contact: Steve Johnston, Strategic Communications, 416-392-4391, sjohnsto@toronto.ca

Farmers' Market starting June 3 at Riverdale Farm

May 24, 2014 - 51 Division Open House and BBQ!!!

City of Toronto's public events and activities on Victoria Day holiday

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:
==========================================

News Release:  May 14, 2014 

City of Toronto's public events and activities on Victoria Day holiday

The City of Toronto will offer a wide variety of activities for residents on Monday, May 19, including the annual Victoria Day fireworks display at Ashbridges Bay. Many family attractions, including two farms, three historic sites and other facilities described below, will be open. City recreation centres will be closed on Victoria Day and recreation programs will not operate that day. 

The Victoria Day fireworks at Ashbridges Bay Park will start at 10 p.m. The show will feature about 2,000 fireworks, with a spectacular finale.

Ashbridges Bay Park is located on Lake Shore Boulevard East at the foot of Coxwell Avenue and is easily accessible by public transit. TTC service will be increased between Queen Street East and Line 2 (Bloor-Danforth) on the 22A Coxwell, 64 Main and 92 Woodbine South bus routes. Members of the public are strongly urged to use public transit and leave personal vehicles at home.

City bylaws prohibit members of the public from setting off or selling fireworks in any City park. Enforcement officers will be onsite to help ensure a safe and enjoyable event at Ashbridges Bay. 

Golf: Toronto has five municipal golf courses. They are open daily, including on Victoria Day. More information about the City-run golf courses is available at http://www.toronto.ca/golf. 

Tennis courts: All public tennis court sites will have nets up and will be available for use throughout the Victoria Day weekend. Public sites are free and available to the general public. Tennis players are asked to share the courts by limiting their play time to half-hour intervals if others are waiting to use the courts. 

Splash pads: Most splash pads will open on Saturday, May 17, with some exceptions. Splash pads adjacent to outdoor pools and those under construction will open later in the season. Splash pads operate daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. by push button. Splash pads are not city-supervised water play areas, so caregivers are reminded to supervise their children. More information, including hours of operation and up-to-date information on splash pad locations, is available at http://www.toronto.ca/parks or by calling 311.

Riverdale Farm: Riverdale Farm is a family attraction where visitors can see traditional farm animals such as cows, horses and chickens. While there, visit the farm residence and the Cabbagetown Regent Park Museum. Riverdale Farm will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on May 19. Admission is free. More information is available at http://www.toronto.ca/parks/zoo/ or by calling 311.

High Park Zoo: Victoria Day is a great time to see the High Park Zoo's spring babies. The zoo, located on Deer Pen Road, offers domestic and exotic animals. The zoo will be open to visitors from 7 a.m. to dusk. More information is available athttp://www.toronto.ca/parks/zoo/ or by calling 311.

Toronto Island Park: Catch a ferry to Toronto Island Park for a scenic picnic, hike or bike ride. The interactive Franklin Children's Garden is another attraction. Ferry schedule and fares: http://www.toronto.ca/parks/island/ferry-schedule.htm 

Greenhouses: A wide variety of flowers are in full bloom at Centennial Park Conservatory (151 Elmcrest Rd.) and Allan Gardens Conservatory (19 Horticultural Ave.) Both conservatories are open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free. Information is available by calling Centennial Park Conservatory at 416-394-8543 and Allan Gardens Conservatory at 416-392-7288 or visithttp://bitly.com/QFFu6S. 

Discovery Walks: Residents can explore their city on foot. The Discovery Walks program is a series of 11 self-guided walks linking ravines, parks and neighbourhoods. Ranging from 1.5 to 11 kilometres, the walks are designed to showcase Toronto’s outstanding natural features and cultural and historical attractions. Brochures and maps are available.

Historic Sites 
The City of Toronto Historic Sites celebrate Victoria Day Monday with fun historical activities for everyone. Details follow.

At Fort York National Historic Site, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., there will be demonstrations of Georgian-era cooking, English country dancing, and kids can participate in a soldiers' drill. Admission: adults $7.96, children $3.76, youth $4.87, seniors $3.81(plus tax). Visitors can also join a free walking tour that explores early British military influences on Toronto's changing urban landscape. Location: 250 Fort York Blvd. Check the website for special directions during construction of a new visitor centre:http://www.toronto.ca/fortyork. 

Montgomery's Inn at Dundas Street West and Islington Avenue will host its annual Victoria Day Tea from 1 to 4 p.m. Admission is $10 plus tax. 

Spadina Museum: Historic House and Gardens - Toronto's own Downton Abbey - will take visitors on a tour of the house through the eyes of the prominent Austin family, whose struggles and triumphs were closely tied to those of Toronto as they entered the 20th century. Spadina Museum is open from noon to 5 p.m. and is located at 285 Spadina Rd., next door to Casa Loma. Admission fees: adults $7.96, seniors and youth $5.75, children six and older $4.87. Admission is free for children five and younger.

For those looking for outings on Saturday and Sunday during the long weekend, all of the historic sites are open and offer guests an opportunity to experience Toronto's history in authentic settings. Event information, locations, hours and prices are available at http://www.toronto.ca/museum-events. 

Municipal services
The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) will operate on its holiday service schedule on Victoria Day, with most routes starting at 6 a.m. For holiday service details, call the TTC's customer information line at 416-393-4636 or visit
http://www3.ttc.ca/Routes/General_Information/Service_Details.jsp.

City of Toronto offices will be closed on the Victoria Day holiday. All City emergency services and 24-hour operations will be provided during the holiday. Residents can call 311, 24 hours a day, seven days a week for more information about City services. 

The City of Toronto Archives will be closed on Monday, May 19. More information about the Archives is available athttp://www.toronto.ca/archives. 

Toronto is Canada's largest city, the fourth largest in North America, and home to a diverse population of about 2.8 million people. It is a global centre for business, finance, arts and culture and is consistently ranked one of the world's most livable cities. Toronto is proud to be the Host City for the 2015 Pan American and Parapan American Games. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can visit http://www.toronto.ca, call 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or follow us @TorontoComms.

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Media contact: Nancy Aranha, Strategic Communications, 416-338-5637, naranha@toronto.ca

North American Safe Boating Awareness Week

Toronto Police Service News Release

Media advisory, Thursday, May 15, 2014, 10 a.m., Marine Unit, 259 Queen's Quay West, North American Safe Boating Awareness Week

Thursday, May 15, 2014 - 5:00 AM
Marine:  416-808-5800

On Thursday, May 15, 2014, at 10 a.m., the City of Toronto will officially proclaim May 17- 23, 2014, as North American Safe Boating Awareness Week.

Following the proclamation, the Toronto Police Service Marine Unit and the Canadian Safe Boating Council will host a media day with numerous exciting events until 2 p.m., at the TPS Marine Unit, at 259 Queen's Quay West.

Leading up to the long weekend, the TPS Marine Unit, Canadian Safe Boating Council, MADD Canada, Dusty Miller Power Boat School, Stearns Harbourfront Canoe & Kayak and Harbourfront Centre Sailing and Powerboating will stage five unique interactive stations for media to experience the essentials of boating safety, such as:

- selecting and fitting children's lifejackets: Stearns, Division of Coleman Canada and The Red Cross

- the dangers of impaired boating: MADD Canada

- boating courses for skills development: Dusty Miller Power Boat School

- interactive demos with kayak, paddle board, sailboat, small power boat (safety equipment): Harbourfront Canoe & Kayak and Harbourfront Centre Sailing and Powerboating

- dangers of cold-water immersion: Canadian Safe Boating Council

Rescue vessels and personnel from Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary detachments in Oakville and Pickering will also be on hand for touring and to discuss their experiences responding to calls from recreational boaters requiring assistance.

The Victoria Day long weekend is considered by many as the unofficial start of summer. The goal of this event, and Safe Boating Awareness Week, is to decrease the number of boating fatalities by educating the public as they begin their boating season with the knowledge and key boating safety tips to help ensure that every trip is a round trip.

For further information please contact:

Ian M. Gilson
Canadian Safe Boating Council
905-719-5152
igilson@shaw.ca
www.csbc.ca

or

Constable Richard Baker
richard.baker@torontopolice.on.ca
Toronto Police Service Marine Unit
416-808-5821


For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.



Constable David Hopkinson, Corporate Communications, for Constable Patrick McLeod, Marine Unit

Toronto Police Service welcomes 60 new recruits

Toronto Police Service News Release

Media advisory, Wednesday, May 14, 2014, noon, Toronto Police College, 70 Birmingham Street, Toronto Police Service welcomes 60 new recruits

Wednesday, May 14, 2014 - 5:10 AM
Corporate Services Command:   416-808-0603

The Toronto Police Service is pleased to be hosting a graduation ceremony for 60 new police recruits on Wednesday, May 14, 2014, at the Toronto Police College, 70 Birmingham Street, starting at noon.

In attendance for this special occasion will be Chief William Blair, Toronto Police Services Board Chair Dr. Alok Mukherjee, and Mr. David Gavsie, Associate Chair of the Ontario Civilian Police Commission.

The graduating class is representative of Toronto's diverse cultural community and brings a superior level of varied knowledge and abilities to the Service, including language skills, previous military or policing experience and post-secondary education.

The class is comprised of 33.3% visible minority members. Of the class, 81.7% successfully completed post-secondary education and 36.7% have previous military or policing experience. A total of 55% of the class speak a language other than English. These include American Sign Language, Arabic, Bosnian, Croatian, Danish, Farsi, French, German, Ilokano, Italian, Japanese, Macedonian, Malayalam, Norwegian, Pashtu, Portuguese, Spanish, Swedish, Tagalog, Tamil, Ukrainian and Yugoslavian. Of the new recruits who speak a second language, 20% speak two or more languages other than English.

If you are interested in pursuing a rewarding career with the Toronto Police Service, please visit our website www.torontopolice.on.ca/careers or call 416/808-JOIN (5646).


For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.



Constable David Hopkinson, Corporate Communications, for Ann Marie Henry, Employment Unit

Canada Road Safety Week Tuesday, May 13, 2014 to Monday, May 19, 2014

Toronto Police Service News Release

Canada Road Safety Week Tuesday, May 13, 2014 to Monday, May 19, 2014

Tuesday, May 13, 2014 - 9:13 AM
Traffic Services:  416-808-1900

Canada Road Safety Week is a national traffic safety and enforcement initiative conducted in partnership with the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police and police services across Canada. This co-ordinated effort between policing agencies is aiming to achieve the goal of making Canada's roads the safest in the world.

Canada Road Safety Week will start on Tuesday, May 13, 2014, and will conclude Monday, May 19, 2014. The goal of this campaign is to identify poor driving habits and behaviour and increase safety through education, awareness and enforcement and, ultimately, save lives.

All police and parking enforcement officers will be paying attention to all traffic laws, including enforcement of impaired operation by alcohol or drugs, pedestrian offences, failure or improper use of seatbelts/child restraints, intersection safety and aggressive driving.

Distracted driving continues to be a problem on our roads which puts other road-users at risk. Special attention will be paid to those drivers who continue to display a total disregard for other users of the road by using hand-held communication and entertainment devices while driving.


For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Police Officer(s) of the Month Awards - 2013 & TPS Business Excellence Awards Presentation

News Release

Media advisory, Tuesday, May 13, 2014, 1:30 p.m., Headquarters, 40 College Street, Police Officer(s) of the Month Awards - 2013 & TPS Business Excellence Awards Presentation

Tuesday, May 13, 2014 - 5:00 AM
Professional Standards Support:  416-808-7096

On Tuesday, May 13, 2014, at 1:30 p.m., in the main lobby of police headquarters, 30 members of the Toronto Police Service will be recognized for bravery, humanitarianism, superior investigative work and overall outstanding police skills as they receive awards for 2013 Police Officer of the Month.

Additionally, the TPS Business Excellence Award nominations will be presented to six serving members of the Service for innovation, community service, technical achievement, customer service and reliability.

Police Officer(s) of the Month Awards – 2013
& TPS Business Excellence Awards Presentation
The presentation will be hosted by Mr. Christopher Worth, Chair of the Police Officer of the Year awards.

Alok Mukherjee, Chair of the Police Services Board and Chief William Blair will be in attendance for the presentations.

For further information, please contact Ms. Deborah Chase at 416-808-8017 or Corporate Communications at 416-808-7100.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable David Hopkinson, Corporate Communications, for Deborah Chase, Office of the Chief

MARCH
PC BRETT, Tyler (10254) 51 Division
PC MILLS, Brad (10523) 51 Division
SEPTEMBER
PC KAMA, Guy (9809) 51 Division
NOVEMBER
PC KENNEDY, Mark (9569) 51 Division

SGT. JAMIE CLARK AND CONSTABLES TYLER BRETT, BRAD MILLS, TREVOR GRIEVE, SEAN HEFFERNAN & MICHAEL KELLY

On Friday March 29th, 2013 at approximately 5:34 p.m., officers responded to a call for a Personal Injury Accident on Lake Shore Boulevard and The Don Roadway.

A vehicle, travelling at a high rate of speed eastbound on Lake Shore Boulevard, crashed through the south guard rail and ended up submerged on its side in the Don River Basin.

Once on scene, Sergeant Jamie Clark took immediate control of what was a chaotic and an emotionally charged situation. Officers and firefighters who arrived were attempting to enter the water to assist in the rescue. Sergeant Clark slowed down the rescue effort to assess the dangers to the officers. The water temperature was a frigid 5 degrees. The water at this location is quite contaminated with debris and is approximately 15 feet deep with next to no visibility.

Sergeant Clark ensured the officers entered the water with emergency equipment such as ropes and float rings to safely assist in the rescue. 

Constable Michael Kelly, a former Marine Unit member, arrived on scene and assumed a leadership role taking control of the rescue, advising the other officers of the dangers, and recognizing the importance of utilizing the emergency equipment at hand knowing that the frigid water would have an immediate effect on their bodies.

Constable Kelly's experience prevented what could have resulted in a rescue of the rescuers.

Without hesitation, officers immediately entered the frigid water and made their way approximately 20 feet to the vehicle using emergency flotation devices.

Constables Kelly, Sean Heffernan, Brad Mills and Brett Tyler located the submerged vehicle and were able to stand on its side. Several attempts weremade by these officers to dive under the water in an effort to locate an entry point and free the victims.

After numerous attempts the officers were unable to open a door due to the pressure from the water.
Constable Kelly utilized his baton to smash out the rear window of the vehicle.

At this time, water immediately rushed into the vehicle, adding additional danger to the officers.

Several more dives were attempted to locate the victims. At this time, members of the Marine Unit arrived on scene. Properly equipped, they were able to assist in the rescue of the victims.

The victims were taken to shore to awaiting Emergency Medical Services members, and transported St Mikes Hospital via an emergency run.

On shore, Constable Trevor Grieve assisted in the scene management. This was a chaotic and emotionally charged situation.

Victims from the vehicle had gotten separated as they exited the water and this caused confusion as to the number of victims and their identities.

Constable Grieve ascertained the names of all the victims, and accounted for their whereabouts.

Constable Grieve was detailed to liaise with Toronto Fire, DAS and St. Mikes Hospital confirming all victims were accounted for.

Family members were arriving on scene and Constable Grieve’s efforts assisted in successfully advising the parents of their children’s whereabouts and carrying out a controlled rescue effort.

All of these officers, without hesitation put their own lives at risk in an attempt to rescue the victims. The dangers these officers faced; near freezing water, hypothermia, contamination, hazardous debris did not deter them from entering the water in an attempt to save lives. This incident was handled in a
controlled/safe manner and with professionalism.

These officers are to be commended for their bravery, professionalism and

teamwork.

IN RECOGNITION OF THEIR BRAVE ACTIONS AND DEDICATION TO DUTY, SERGEANT JAMIE CLARKE AND CONSTABLES TYLER BRETT, BRAD MILLS, TREVOR GRIEVE, SEAN HEFFERNAN AND MICHAEL KELLY HAVE BEEN SELECTED AS POLICE OFFICERS OF THE MONTH FOR MARCH 2013.

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CONSTABLE GUY KAMA

In January 2011, while investigating an occurrence involving a government issued cheque, Constable Guy Kama was approached by an investigations manager with the Directorate of Public Works who asked him to assist with an unrelated investigation. The manager reported that his department had discovered several government issued cheques had been fraudulently altered and were being cashed at various financial institutions in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). This fraud scheme was expanding and more than one individual was involved in the criminal activity. The group was targeting the five major banks making sure never to visit the same branch twice. 

Constable Kama was provided a monthly spread sheet identifying all suspect cheques. Constable Kama contacted each of the five major banks and requested surveillance photos, as well as, the original cheques for

fingerprinting purposes. As most government cheques are mailed out, Constable Kama also sought the assistance of Canada Post to try and identify the location where the cheques were being stolen.

Constable Kama analyzed the information he received and was able to identify 5 primary suspects. He determined that there was a main suspect who was a part of this sophisticated network; however numerous attempts to locate the suspect proved futile. Constable Kama began attending community events to become acquainted with friends of this suspect.

Eventually Constable Kama received information regarding the suspect’s whereabouts. He immediately commenced observations on the address. On April 20, 2012 he observed the suspect leave the address and get into a motor vehicle. The vehicle was intercepted; the suspect was arrested and charged.

Further investigation resulted in 3 additional suspects being arrested and charged. One of the suspects had fled the country.

The investigations manager confirmed with Constable Kama that the fraudulent encashment of government cheques has declined considerably as a direct result of these arrests.

IN RECOGNITION HIS SUPERIOR INVESTIGATIVE SKILLS AND DEDICATION TO DUTY, CONSTABLE GUY KAMA HAS BEEN SELECTED AS POLICE OFFICER OF THE MONTH FOR SEPTEMBER 2013.

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DETECTIVE SERGEANT DEBBIE HARRIS & CONSTABLE MARK KENNEDY

In January 2011 a series of arson occurred. One building, designated as an historic building, was intentionally set on fire. The incident was classified as a six alarm fire and damage was estimated to be in excess of $3,000,000. The lead police investigator was then Detective Debbie Harris.

From January 2011 to July 2012 several other fires occurred. Constable Mark Kennedy took an interest in arson investigation and assisted Detective Harris. He identified a viable suspect who was wanted on a warrant for failing to comply with the terms of a Probation Order. The warrant was executed and the suspect was placed under arrest. Detective Harris and Constable Kennedy interviewed the suspect on video.

Over a period of time Detective Harris established a rapport with the suspect. This assisted her in gaining his co-operation and led to the suspect providing information to her. He readily admitted to setting fires in hotels to kill residents who had confronted him regarding his activities. He indicated that he wanted to hurt the people and that he started fires because he “got a kick” out of it. He admitted to a lifelong involvement with intentionally setting fires and provided details regarding a number of other arson occurrences for which he was responsible. He also admitted that in some instances he was hired to set the fires.

Following the suspect’s confession, Detective Harris and Constable Kennedy made concerted efforts to verify the details. In October 2012 the suspect pled guilty to a total of eight criminal charges including arson and attempted murder.

As well, the success of the investigation was in large part made possible by Det. Harris and Constable Kennedy’s teamwork and collaboration with Toronto Fire Services and the Office of the Ontario Fire Marshall.

IN RECOGNTION OF THEIR SUPERIOR INVESTIGATIVE SKILLS AND DEDICATION TO DUTY, DETECTIVE SERGEANT DEBBIE HARRIS & CONSTABLE MARK KENNEDY HAVE BEEN SELECTED AS POLICE OFFICERS OF THE MONTH FOR NOVEMBER 2013.

The Toronto Police Service is requesting the public's assistance locating a missing man.

Toronto Police Service News Release

Missing man, Donald Potan, 53

Monday, May 12, 2014 - 11:57 AM
51 Division:  416-808-5100

The Toronto Police Service is requesting the public's assistance locating a missing man.

Donald Potan, 53, was last seen on Saturday, May 3, 2014, at 9 a.m., in the Dundas Street East/Parliament Street area.

He is described as Aboriginal, 6'1", 201 lbs., with short black hair, a black trimmed beard, and a black/grey moustache. He was wearing prescription glasses, blue jeans, a black baseball hat and a tan jacket with the lettering "Don" and "Contractor" on the front and "AB Contracting" on the back.

Police are concerned for his safety.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-5104, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online at www.222tips.com, text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637), or Leave A Tip on Facebook. Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Victor Kwong, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Alex Wallace, 51 Division

Missing man Donald Potan, 53

Weatherproofing Toronto – City of Toronto launches public consultation on emergency weather

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:

==========================================

News Release:  May 9, 2014                 

Weatherproofing Toronto – City of Toronto launches public consultation on emergency weather

Toronto residents are invited to provide their feedback in person and online on the City of Toronto's response to the July 2013 flood and the December 2013 ice storm.

The City Manager encourages the public to visit Toronto's emergency weather consultation website http://www.toronto.ca/weatherprooftoronto over the next three weeks to:

• complete an online feedback form

• find out about the dates and locations of public consultation sessions 

• learn more about how the City manages weather emergencies, and 

• download information on preparing yourself and your home for emergencies.

The online feedback form is now live and will be available until midnight May 30.

Members of the public are also invited to attend a public information and consultation session to provide feedback in person and speak with staff. Public sessions are scheduled for the following dates and locations:

- Monday, May 12: Scarborough Civic Centre, 150 Borough Dr., 6 to 9 p.m.

- Tuesday, May 13: Toronto City Hall, 100 Queen St. W., 6 to 9 p.m.

- Wednesday, May 14: North York Civic Centre, 5110 Yonge St., 6 to 9 p.m.

- Thursday, May 15: Etobicoke Civic Centre, 399 The West Mall, 6 to 9 p.m.

Each session will start at 6 p.m., with information and displays about extreme weather and emergency preparedness. At 7 p.m., staff will provide a formal presentation, take questions and hear remarks from the public, and facilitate discussions on the best ways to weatherproof Toronto in the future. Venues are accessible and ASL interpretation will be provided.

Toronto's emergency weather consultation runs from May 9 to May 30. Everyone, whether or not attending a session, is encouraged to fill out the online feedback form.

The City Manager will report back to the City's Executive Committee on July 2 on the outcomes of storm-related reviews undertaken by the City and Toronto Hydro, and on this public consultation. Public input will be posted on the consultation website and the City's Open Data website.

This news release is also available on the City's website: http://bitly.com/1uJncSz

Toronto is Canada's largest city, the fourth largest in North America, and home to a diverse population of about 2.8 million people. It is a global centre for business, finance, arts and culture and is consistently ranked one of the world's most livable cities. Toronto is proud to be the Host City for the 2015 Pan American and Parapan American Games. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can visit http://www.toronto.ca, call 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or follow us @TorontoComms.

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Media contact: Wynna Brown, Strategic Communications, 416-392-8937, wbrown1@toronto.ca

Kitchen and bathroom seen as top home upgrades – but half of Toronto homeowners do nothing to prevent basement flooding

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:

==========================================

News Release

May 8, 2014   

Kitchen and bathroom seen as top home upgrades – but half of Toronto homeowners do nothing to prevent basement flooding

According to a recent survey conducted for the City of Toronto, updating the kitchen and the bathroom were considered the top upgrades to improve the value of a home. Yet the survey found that almost half (47%) of Toronto homeowners have done nothing to prevent basement flooding. 

The survey found that more than half (52%) of respondents considered updating the kitchen a top upgrade, while 15 per cent indicated they consider bathroom updates a top way to improve a home's value. 

According to the survey, Toronto homeowners feel they know a lot about the condition of their furnace (60%) or roof (57%), while only one-third (32%) say they know a lot about their pipes and drainage system. A sizable proportion – almost a quarter of Toronto homeowners (22%) – say they know nothing about the condition of their pipes and drainage system.

Despite the significant rainfall event on July 8 last year, the survey also found the number of homeowners who say they are "very concerned" about basement flooding has decreased in the last three years. In 2011, 29 per cent of home owners were very concerned about basement flooding compared to only 11 per cent in 2014.

"Toronto Water is committed to maintaining and upgrading the infrastructure related to managing storms – our 10-year plan includes spending $3.1 billion on waste water and stormwater collection systems," said Councillor Denzil Minnan-Wong (Ward 34 Don Valley East), Chair of the Public Works and Infrastructure Committee. "The City also has the Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program to help property owners flood-proof their homes."

"Toronto’s sewers are designed for most storms, but Toronto is experiencing more severe weather events with higher rainfall levels occurring over a shorter amount of time – which can lead to flooding," said Lou Di Gironimo, General Manager of Toronto Water. "The City is taking action to prevent basement flooding, but we also encourage property owners to be aware of steps they can take to protect their homes. Just like the shingles on your roof, your home's plumbing and drainage need to be properly maintained."

During emergency preparedness week (May 5 to 9, 2014) and all year long, the City encourages residents to learn what can be done around their homes to help prevent basement flooding. These tips can be found online at toronto.ca/basementflooding (http://www.toronto.ca/basementflooding) and are currently being advertised across the city.

Tips to help prevent basement flooding

Part of reducing the risk of basement floods is to understand how your drainage and plumbing work and how to maintain it. Every home is different and homes over time have been built with different building practice and building codes. Some of what you should know about your home includes:

- Knowing the location and condition of your sewer lateral (pipe).

- Knowing the location and condition of your storm sewer lateral (pipe).

- Finding out if you have a backwater valve or sump pump, and if so, how to maintain them.

- Finding out if you have weeping tiles and if so, their condition and where they are connected.

- Inspecting your eavestroughs and downspouts to ensure they are clear of debris and functioning properly. If your downspouts are connected to the sewer system, disconnect them if it is safe to do so and have the water drain on to your lawn, at least six feet away from your foundation.

To understand some of these elements of your home’s plumbing, you may want to hire a licensed plumber who can conduct specialized testing or inspection, often through video camera inspection.

Once you understand your plumbing and drainage system, you also have to maintain it. 

- Fix any cracks or other condition problems.

- Avoid creating clogs. Items such as dental floss and personal care products including "flushable" wipes should not be flushed down the toilet. Also, never pour any fats, oils and grease down the drain.

Other things a homeowner can do are:

- Seal cracks or openings in basement walls, floors, windows, doors and foundations.

- Ensure the grading around your home slopes away from the foundation wall. 

- Install flood prevention devices including a sump pump and backwater valve.

What to do if your basement floods

- Stop all household water use.

- Call your insurance company as soon as possible to report property damage caused by flooding.

- Call 311 immediately to report basement flooding. During extreme weather, call volumes will be high. 311 is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

- Do not enter a flooded basement, as you may be exposed to sewage or come in contact with water and electricity.

- Be mindful of your health and safety when cleaning up a flooded basement. Do not stand in flood water. Call a professional for assistance.

What the City is doing

- The City of Toronto is working to make improvements to its complex system, with a 10-year plan (as of the 2014 budget) that includes spending $3.1 billion on waste water and stormwater collection systems.

- However, these improvements alone cannot completely protect a home from basement flooding. Those who act to prevent flooding on their own property can significantly reduce the risk of basement flooding.

- To assist homeowners, the City offers the Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program, which offers eligible owners of single-family, duplex and triplex residential homes a financial subsidy of up to $3,400 per property to install flood protection devices. Devices include backwater valve, sump pump, and pipe severance and capping of the home's storm sewer or external weeping tile connection.

About the survey: The survey was conducted online by Ipsos Reid for the City of Toronto between April 16 and 24, 2014.  A total of 500 interviews were completed among Toronto homeowners. The survey is considered accurate to within +/- 5.0 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.

This release is also available on the City's website: http://bit.ly/1ivn27E

Toronto is Canada's largest city, the fourth largest in North America, and home to a diverse population of about 2.8 million people. It is a global centre for business, finance, arts and culture and is consistently ranked one of the world's most livable cities. Toronto is proud to be the Host City for the 2015 Pan American and Parapan American Games. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can visit http://www.toronto.ca, call 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or follow us @TorontoComms.

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Media contact: Ellen Leesti, Strategic Communications, 416-397-1403, eleesti@toronto.ca

Weekend event with road closures in Toronto

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:
==================================

News Release

May 8, 2014                                                                                                                                      

Weekend event with road closures in Toronto

A special event in Toronto this weekend will involve road closures. Residents and visitors are encouraged to come out and enjoy the event – Sunday's Sporting Life 10k run. Businesses in the areas affected are open to pedestrian traffic but some roads will be closed to vehicles.

Festivals and other special events are important to the city, injecting hundreds of millions of dollars annually into Toronto’s economy, and they are enjoyed each year by local residents.

In addition to road closures related to special events, a significant amount of road work is taking place in the city. People are encouraged to take public transit as a greener, faster and more affordable way of getting to their destinations.

Those who need to drive in the general vicinity of special events should allow extra time to get to and from their destination. A more complete list of events and road work is available at http://www.toronto.ca/torontostreets/.

Sporting Life 10k - Sunday closures and delays Yonge Street between Lawrence Avenue and Eglinton Avenue will be closed from 5 to 10 a.m. on Sunday, May 11 to accommodate the formation area for the run. Along the route for the run, closures will occur between 8 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. at the following locations:
• Yonge Street between Eglinton Avenue and Richmond Street
• Richmond Street from Yonge Street to Peter Street
• Peter Street/Blue Jays Way between Richmond Street and Front Street
• Westbound Front Street between Blue Jays Way and Bathurst Street
• Bathurst Street from Front Street to Fort York Boulevard
• Fort York Boulevard from Bathurst Street to Fleet Street

Expect delays on Lake Shore Boulevard at Fort York Boulevard as runners enter Coronation Park.

After all runners have passed an intersection, that intersection will reopen to traffic in the area.

This news release is also available on the City's website: http://bitly.com/1gcinHK

Toronto is Canada's largest city, the fourth largest in North America, and home to a diverse population of about 2.8 million people. It is a global centre for business, finance, arts and culture and is consistently ranked one of the world's most livable cities. Toronto is proud to be the Host City for the 2015 Pan American and Parapan American Games. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can visit http://www.toronto.ca, call 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or follow us @TorontoComms.

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Media contact: Steve Johnston, Strategic Communications, 416-392-4391, sjohnsto@toronto.ca

#Fraudchat: Staying Safe When Looking for a Summer Job

Toronto Police Service News Release

Thursday, May 8, 2014, 9 p.m., #Fraudchat: Staying Safe When Looking for a Summer Job

Thursday, May 8, 2014 - 9:00 AM
Financial Crimes:  416-808-7300

To help high school students stay safe when looking for summer jobs, #Fraudchat is running a three-week series on job scams and protecting your personal information when job-searching. These chats will cover the following topics:

• May 8: Protect yourself when looking for a summer job
• May 15: Protect your personal information when job-searching
• May 22: What to do if you’ve become involved in a job scam

To follow #fraudchat, members of the public simply log on to Twitter from 9 p.m., to 10 p.m., on Thursday nights and follow the #Fraudchat hashtag. An application such as "Tweetdeck," which allows users to view tweets containing this hashtag, is also helpful in following the chat.

About #Fraudchat

#Fraudchat is a weekly Twitter chat that takes place every Thursday from 9 p.m., to 10 p.m., on Twitter. Launched in November 2012, this program seeks to educate and exchange ideas with the public about financial crimes and fraud. The moderators for this program are Kristen Rose, Senior Communications Officer at the Financial Services Commission of Ontario, and TPS Detective Sergeant Cameron Field.

Since November 2012, the Financial Crimes Unit has partnered with the Financial Service Commission of Ontario to educate the public about financial crimes and fraud through the use of social media.

Media inquiries

For more information about #fraudchat, please contact the Financial Crimes Unit at 416-808-7300 or Kristen Rose, Senior Communications Officer at the Financial Services Commission of Ontario at 416-226-780


For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.



Constable Jenifferjit Sidhu, Corporate Communications, for Staff Inspector Mary Lee Metcalfe, Financial Crimes Unit

More help available to people experiencing a mental health crisis

Toronto Police Service News Release

Mobile Crisis Intervention Teams to be available across Toronto, More help available to people experiencing a mental health crisis

Monday, May 5, 2014 - 12:30 PM
Corporate Communications:  416-808-7100

Mobile Crisis Intervention Teams (MCITs), comprising a mental health nurse and police officer, specially trained in crisis intervention, will soon be available to serve people facing a mental health crisis across the city of Toronto, seven days a week.

MCITs are a partnership between the Toronto Police Service (TPS) and participating hospitals including Toronto East General Hospital, Humber River Hospital, North York General Hospital, St. Michael's Hospital, St. Joseph's Health Centre and The Scarborough Hospital.

Working together, a mental health nurse and police officer assess the needs of a person in an emotional or mental health crisis and connect them with the most appropriate services. Each MCIT covers a particular TPS Division and additionally helps to de-escalate and avert injury to police, nurse and person in crisis and reduce pressure on the justice and health care systems.

MCITs respond to crisis calls from those thinking of suicide or harming themselves, or those demonstrating distorted or psychotic thinking, anxiety and overwhelming depression.

A recent report by the Centre for Research on Inner City Health (CRICH) of St. Michael's Hospital revealed that the partnership between the police and the mental health nurse is having a positive effect on those who were affected by a mental health crisis:

- people in crisis were provided compassionate care and given a voice in their own care;
- MCITs are helping to respond to more people in an emotional crisis;
- MCITs are helping to keep care in the community, preventing unnecessary admission to the ED and into the justice system.

Police are usually the first responders to mental health emergencies in the community. In 2011, the TPS was dispatched to almost 20,000 calls related to a mental health crisis. To better address this issue, the first Toronto-based MCIT was formed in 2000.

To read the full Toronto Mobile Crisis Intervention Team (MCIT) Program Implementation Evaluation Final Report, click here.

Quotes:

"The Toronto Police Service has worked hard with its health-sector partners to build up a network of Mobile Crisis Intervention Teams across Toronto. They have one purpose: provide the best possible help and support to those experiencing a mental health crisis. I want to extend my thanks and appreciation to all our partners for their dedication and commitment."

Deputy Chief Mike Federico, Toronto Police Service, Co-Chair, City of Toronto MCIT Program Implementation Steering Committee


"I'm proud of the collaboration between the police and local hospitals in helping to improve the access to services and resources for those experiencing a mental health and emotional crisis. At Toronto East General Hospital, we've noticed that our MCIT is having a positive impact on our community and that lives have been improved as a direct result of the intervention of the team."

Rob Devitt, CEO Toronto East General Hospital, Co-Chair, City of Toronto MCIT Program Implementation Steering Committee.

For more information:

Mark Pugash
Director of Corporate Communications
Toronto Police Service
T: 416-808-7088
E: mark.pugash@torontopolice.on.ca


Sharon Navarro
Senior Consultant, Corporate Communications
Toronto East General Hospital
T: 416-469-6459
M: 416-303-5709
E: snava@tegh.on.ca



Frequently Asked Questions

What is an MCIT?
Mobile Crisis Intervention Teams, or MCITs, comprise a mental health nurse and police officer specially trained in crisis intervention. This duo works together to help people experiencing a mental health crisis in the community. They are a seven-day-a-week partnership between participating hospitals and Toronto Police. Working together, each MCIT assesses needs and connects the person with the most appropriate services.

What is being announced today?
The Mobile Crisis Intervention Team program is being expanded to cover additional police Divisions where there was previously no coverage. In March, a new MCIT was established in 32 and 33 Divisions. In the summer, there will be additional MCITs available to respond to those with mental health crisis issues across all 17 Toronto Police Divisions.

Why are MCITs needed?
Police tend to be the typical frontline responders to mental health emergencies in the community. In 2011, the Toronto Police Service (TPS) was dispatched to almost 20,000 calls related to Emotionally Disturbed Persons (EDPs) in the community. MCITs have been formed to address this issue. In 2000, the TPS, in partnership with St. Michael's Hospital, formally launched the first MCIT in Toronto.

Where are the new teams located?
The new teams will be located in 32 and 33 Divisions in partnership with North York General Hospital, 23 Division in partnership with Humber River Hospital, 22 Division in partnership with St. Joseph's Health Centre and 53 Division in partnership with Toronto East General Hospital.

What does this mean for those living with mental illness?
For those who have a mental health or emotional crisis, the city-wide expansion of the MCIT program means that there is greater access to specialized police and health care resources and help during a crisis situation.

Other benefits include:
- providing dignified, compassionate and individualized care for a person in a vulnerable situation
- giving the client/patient a say in their own health care
- increased referrals/linkages to mental health supports
- immediate case management
- fewer police apprehensions
- community outreach to families
- opportunities to educate both mental health nurses and police officers
- partnership between MCIT and Emergency Departments (EDs) to expedite provision of care
- community partnerships with agencies in catchment area to provide referrals to and from MCIT

How many MCITs work in Toronto?
There are six MCITs in Toronto that work out of six hospitals including: Toronto East General Hospital, St. Michael's Hospital, Humber River Hospital, St. Joseph's Health Centre, North York General Hospital and The Scarborough Hospital.

What are the main goals of Toronto’s MCIT program?
The main goals of the MCIT program are to:
1) provide prompt assessment and support to a person experiencing a mental health crisis
2) link people in mental health crisis to appropriate community services if follow-up treatment is recommended
3) de-escalate and avert injury to both police, nurse and person in crisis
4) reduce pressure on the justice system
5) reduce pressure on the health care system, for example, decrease unnecessary visits to the emergency department.

How successful have the MCITs been so far in accomplishing the goals?
A recent report by the Centre for Research on Inner City Health (CRICH) and St. Michael's Hospital revealed that, overall, the MCITs are meeting the program's main goals and responding to more individuals in crisis, treating people in the community and helping to prevent unnecessary admission to the ED and into the justice system. Consumers surveyed reported positive experiences with the teams and that they felt respected, cared for and had a choice in their care. Teams surveyed also said that they were proud and invested in the service they provide. To read the full report, Toronto Mobile Crisis Intervention Team (MCIT) Program Implementation Evaluation Final Report, click here.

What is the demographic of the clients served by MCITs?
Any person, regardless of age, gender or nationality, can experience a mental health crisis, so MCITs can and will attend to people of all ages as needed.

How do MCITs work?
When 9-1-1 receives a call related to an EDP, primary response unit (PRU) officers are dispatched to assess the safety of the situation and evaluate whether it is appropriate for an MCIT to respond. If it is appropriate, the MCIT will be dispatched to the call by the Toronto Police Communications centre. The Communications centre occasionally receives calls from community agencies, family members and consumers asking for the MCIT to attend. MCITs also occasionally respond directly to radio calls.

What types of calls do the MCITs attend?
MCITs respond to a mental health crisis including thoughts of suicide or self-harm, distorted or psychotic thinking, anxiety, overwhelming depression and those who may be suffering from a temporary breakdown of coping skills.

What types of calls do they NOT respond to?
MCITs do not respond to calls regarding individuals who are intoxicated on drugs or alcohol, violent individuals or people with weapons, or overdoses.

Are MCITs available 24/7?
The teams operate seven days a week and, depending on the team, will work as early as 6 a.m. and as late as 11 p.m. The hours are based on times where police receive the highest number of calls for people experiencing a mental health or emotional crisis. Toronto Police is available 24/7 to attend 9-1-1 calls involving an emotional crisis.

Are there plans to expand the hours covered by the MCITs?
The recent report done by CRICH provided some insight into a number of areas where we can further investigate and evaluate the efficacy of MCITs. As new MCITs are implemented, we continue to monitor their effectiveness and gather data about the community and the people they serve. Through partnerships with the Toronto Police and local hospitals, we are fully committed to improving the quality and access of care for those experiencing mental health and emotional crises. At this time, there are no plans to expand the hours covered by MCITs but, as we continue to monitor the program, the decision to do so will be based on evidence and community need.

When a team is working with one client, doesn’t it mean that there is no MCIT in that Division able to respond to another mental health crisis? What happens then?
There is generally only one MCIT available at one time in each Division. If the team is in the ED or on another call, the PRU, or regular police, will respond to the crisis. All police are trained to respond to people with mental health illness. In 2011, the TPS was dispatched to almost 20,000 calls related to a mental health crisis. Even when on another call, the MCIT is available via cellphone to PRU for consultation.

The CRICH report also suggested that Primary Response Unit officers and MCITs receive more training, particularly "cross-over" training in each other's areas of expertise to help make the partnership among nurse and police officer more seamless. Is there any increased training available?
The MCIT program continues to improve to better serve those with mental health crises. Over the last year, the TPS and its health care partners have been committed to better train and educate the teams. For example, all new teams will now take a one-week specialized MCIT course that includes training on understanding mental health disorders and the advanced use of force safety and de-escalation simulation. An MCIT education plan has recently been implemented to provide further education to teams and officers as well create a forum for ongoing discussion.


For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.



Mark Pugash, Corporate Communications, for Deputy Chief Mike Federico