Photo: Halton Police
People in the custody of the Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) will have their safety ensured thanks to a new biometric health monitoring system.
It offers continuous, real-time monitoring of vital health metrics, including the heart rate and respiratory rate of detainees. The system is operational at the HRPS Central Lock-Up, located at 20 Division in Oakville, and provides alerts to staff in the event of medical distress. Using state-of-the-art radar-based sensors, this new approach reduces risk and ensures timely medical assessments for detained individuals in need.
“This technology not only enhances our ability to ensure the safety and well-being of detainees in our custody, but it also underscores our commitment to upholding the highest standards of care and responsibility,” says Staff Sergeant Gus Bistas of the HRPS Strategic Management Office. “By closely monitoring vital signs and health indicators, we can respond swiftly and effectively to medical needs, ultimately creating a safer environment for everyone involved.”
Police have noted an increasing presence of potentially deadly narcotics such as fentanyl when taking people into custody and continue to look for ways to increase safety for everyone. In 2022, the HRPS began making free lifesaving Naloxone available through Central Lock-Up to anyone requesting one.
Biometric health monitoring will work alongside existing care policies, which include in-person well-being checks for detainees at regular intervals.
After first implementing the system in June, the HRPS is among the first police services in the province to adopt this technology.
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