Simulated opposing forces in a G Wagon (front) and a Medium Support Vehicle System (MSVS) move into position during Exercise STALWART GUARDIAN on August 25, 2015 at Garrison Petawawa, Ontario. Photo: 32 Canadian Brigade Group Public Affairs PA02-2015-0213-146 ~ Des forces d’opposition simulées à bord d’un G Wagon (à l’avant) et un véhicule du Système de véhicules de soutien moyen (SVSM) se mettent en position au cours de l’exercice STALWART GUARDIAN, le 25 août 2015, à la Garnison Petawawa, en Ontario. Photo : 32e Groupe brigade du Canada – Affaires publiques PA02-2015-0213-146
Security changes are set to roll out at Garrison Petawawa over the coming months as part of a long-term effort to strengthen protection measures at the military installation.
Officials say the enhancements will be introduced gradually in phases and are aligned with broader national and international security practices. The changes are aimed at improving the safety of personnel and facilities on the base.
As part of the new measures, members of the Defence Team will receive vehicle hangtags through their units to help facilitate access to operational areas.
Under the updated procedures, visitors entering the base will be required to obtain a pass. Personnel expecting visitors will need to contact the main gate in advance, providing their name, rank and location so a pass can be prepared.
Officials say Defence Team members will be able to escort family members onto the base without requiring additional passes, provided all adults carry government-issued identification and remain with their group.
The new system will also apply to deliveries for those living on base, which will be managed through the visitor pass process once the changes are fully implemented.
Visitor passes will not necessarily need to be returned daily, as options for multi-day passes are expected to be available.
Officials say more details will be shared as the phased rollout continues, and they are asking for cooperation from military members, community partners and the public during the transition.
(Steve Berard)