Saskatoon hospitals safe according to health authority

Early Sunday, a man was spotted outside Royal University Hospital with a knife.

Security held the man until police arrived. It happened a week to the day after a nurse was robbed outside St. Paul’s Hospital.

While two incidents happening in such a short period of time is concerning, the executive director of infrastructure management with the Saskatchewan Health Authority says the city’s hospitals are secure.

“Our hospitals are safe, but I guess as with any property in a city, there is always a risk of crime or security concerns,” said Derek Miller.

Miller said Saskatoon’s hospitals have around-the-clock security inside, and they also have patrols outside of the buildings.

“Our security officers work with the police with responding to the incident and afterwards as well as with any investigation work that needs to happen as a follow-up,” said Miller.

Miller added that having security on site is just one way to be safe.

“It’s important to also be aware of your surroundings, and that would apply to any environment,” he said.