ABSTRACT
Canada utilizes an indicator of crime called the crime severity index, which is a measure of the total severity and volume of crime in a jurisdiction. Although arrests for impaired driving can be a function of police priorities, the highest rates for impaired driving deaths also occur in the least populated provinces. Citizens were generally satisfied with their approach to policing as the centrally managed Northwest Mounted Police deliberately avoided involvement in local politics. A number of Aboriginal communities are deploying uniformed non-police officers in support roles. Natural and man-made disasters, traffic accidents, encounters between humans and wildlife and lost or stranded travelers are common challenges, as are long-standing disputes between neighbors that can sometimes quickly escalate. There are a growing number of rural police services that are engaging in formalized partnerships with community agencies to work with at-risk individuals and families. Private security personnel are also doing work previously carried out by sworn officers.
