The three Quick Response Units (QRU's) are full-time units in the Patrol Division.  Each unit is assigned to one of the three Halifax Regional Police (HRP) Divisions - East, West and Central. There are 21 Quick Response Officers; one Sergeant and six Constables per division.

QRU's were created to support the Patrol Divisions and assist Divisional Commanders with areas of concern, focussing on community and "quality of life" issues.  Generally, the issues handled by these units are ones that are more serious in nature and are beyond the first responders' mandate.  The frequency of the events is also a factor when involving a Quick Response Unit.

Officers in this unit have the ability to work in uniform or plain clothes, depending on the project.  Officers are assigned projects, manage specific files and develop operational plans which will enable them to address the areas of concerns.  In some cases, QRU officers from one division may be temporarily assigned to supplement another QRU division for a project that requires additional resources.