The objective of the Tactical and Rescue Unit is to contain and resolve potentially life threatening situations. The preservation of life is the units number one priority.
In response to a visit by Queen Elizabeth a six man Sniper Team was formed in 1976. The unit received training from LAPD SWAT and was originally utilized as a street level drug unit when not engaged in tactical duties.
In the year 2000 due to the increase in calls for service the unit expanded to its current compliment of 23 highly trained full-time officers. The unit’s current mandate is to respond to incidents of hostage / barricaded persons or any situation where a firearm or weapon is involved. The unit provides tactical support for all the bureaus within the Peel Regional Police.
Members are capable and highly trained in areas of Hostage Rescue, Rappelling, High Risk Offender Apprehension, Warrant Service, Sniper Interdiction, Tubular Assaults and Hostage Negotiation. Special Weapons and Tactics training is ongoing and members receive various training from specialized units across North America.
The application process for officers to become a member of the unit consists of interviews, a strenuous fitness test, psychological and weapons testing. Successful applicants then must pass six weeks of Special Weapons and Tactics training followed by a nine month probationary period before becoming a full-time member of the Tactical and Rescue Unit.