This week’s episode of “Silence Broken: The IPV Talks” is explaining how Canada’s red flag law can help communities respond when firearms may increase the risk of intimate partner violence.
Lanark County Interval House Executive Director Erin Lee tells host Bob Perreault the law gives survivors, relatives, neighbours and advocates a way to raise concerns with a court.
Lee says the applicant does not have to be the victim.
A judge can issue an emergency prohibition order when evidence shows weapons may pose a danger. The order can lead to firearms and weapons being removed for 30 days.
Lee says the process does not require a lawyer. Judges may consider notes, police records, third-party information and evidence of violence or threats.
Billboards on highways 7 and 15 will promote the law through the See It, Name It, Change It campaign. Ottawa Victim Services and Algonquin College’s Victimology Research Centre are involved.
Lee stresses the law is not intended for an immediate crisis.
Anyone facing an urgent or life-threatening situation should still call 911.
The full episode is streaming below.
