For all the good things that social media can provide, there is a dark and ugly side that continues to proliferate in our local Facebook groups.
On Sunday evening, the Tsawwassen Loop was on overdrive with rampant speculation about a police incident near the South Delta Rec. Centre.
The first post went up and then all hell broke loose because of people’s insatiable desire to know what is going on.
As it turns out it was a serious incident involving a person who had injured themselves.
The speculation sparked this response from Delta Police who posted in the Loop on Monday afternoon, “A reminder to all that often times when police and/or ambulance are on scene, this is potentially someone’s worst day. We'd ask that you respect that and wait to hear from official channels before commenting and/or posting photos about the incident.”
It’s a simple, but stern ask from police to show some compassion and respect.
I still don’t understand why there are so many out there that don’t get this.
If you hear sirens in the community that means police, fire, ambulance or all three of these first responders are on their way to attend to an emergency situation.
Unless it is an instant matter of public safety, or that it may involve you, it really is none of your business. Don’t go posting on social media asking what’s going on. Don’t start sparking rumours and stirring up the pot. That does nothing but cause undue panic in the community. It potentially hurts those who are involved and it can also hinder the first responders from doing their jobs.
This is not the first time I have written about this in a column and sadly I doubt it will be my last because people really don’t care, but I will ask again, please mind your own business.
