Derek Neary
Northern News Services

NNSL (Mar 05/99) - When the auxiliary constable program began in the NWT a few years ago, Tim Fifield jumped at the opportunity.

Then living in Hall Beach, he became the first auxiliary member of the RCMP in the community. He repeated that distinction only six months ago when he and his wife, Yolanda, moved to Fort Liard. He approached Const. Merle Carpenter and inquired about helping out.

"He was very accepting," said Fifield, who then had his uniform shipped from Hall Beach. "I enjoy working with the public. I have an appreciation for the law and the people who do the job."

To get started in an auxiliary role, he had to complete some basic training. He received instruction in firing a nine-millimetre pistol and a shotgun. Although he's not issued a weapon, he explained that he has to be prepared to use one in case he is on the scene when an officer is shot. He also received training in the use of pepper spray, a baton, hand-cuffing, self-defence, using police radio and administrative duties.

"It's not all riding around in a truck," Fifield said, smiling. "It's a good way for anyone that's interested at all in the force to get a feel for the job and the people you'll be working with."

He's dealt with domestic disputes, vehicle checks, search warrants, border patrols and public relations -- being present at official functions and addressing students. Fifield, a Grade 10 and physical education teacher, said his role as an auxiliary police officer also ties in nicely with his profession because he promotes a clean, healthy lifestyle in both capacities. He and Carpenter have been taking 10 students on snowmobiling trips to Mount Coty on the weekends since December. Fifield said the outings are a means of proactive policing rather than reactive -- keeping the youth occupied, and helping them relate to the police on a personal basis.

"It puts a face to the RCMP," he said.

Carpenter added that the trips also give law-abiding adolescents a chance to interact with the police that they'd likely never receive otherwise.

In order to maintain his status as an auxiliary member, Fifield has to put in 160 hours per year. He achieves that through working the occasional evening shift or whenever requested. He always works alongside the constable on duty and takes direction from him rather than working independently, he noted.

"I really am enjoying this. It adds a new dimension to your life," he said of the job. "It certainly gives you a better understanding of the community. You appreciate the law-abiding citizens a lot more."

Carpenter, who often finds himself on duty alone, said he appreciates Fifield's presence.

"I couldn't have done it without Tim's help some of the time," he said. "Just knowing he's there puts me at ease."

He added that more interest from the community would be welcomed.

"We'd love to have more auxiliaries out here," he said.