Security forces are busy preparing for every possible scenario for the upcoming G20 summit.
On Thursday night, many of York Regional Police’s 400 officers assisting in the summit were learning how to properly use gas masks.
5, 500 of the masks have been purchased by Toronto police at a cost of $350-$400 dollars each.
If and when gas is dispersed, it gets filtered through charcoal and baking soda in the mask. This reduces the wearer’s breathing capacity by 25-30 per cent.
Gas and other potential security measures was tops on the agenda at a town hall meeting for residents who live and work in or just outside of the security area.
“There were reports about some weapons that will be brought out that will make so much noise they’ll affect your hearing,” said one resident.
While many were wondering if they would be expected to pay for damage to their properties, the area’s city councilor wasn’t shy about letting his feelings show.
“There’s still questions about compensation. And I have no new info on that. Stephen Harper still refuses to protect Canadians. Although he has a billion dollars for things like fake lakes,” said Adam Vaughan.
The residents and businesses received packages on how to handle emergency situations. And police have maintained tactics like gas and sound cannons are a last resort.