The B.C. Citizens Patrol Network, an organization of civic-minded volunteers dedicated to making communities safer places to live and work, is seeking recruits.
The Citizens Patrol concept, originated in western Canada, was created to have ordinary citizens supplement police patrols to help reduce crime by keeping a neighbourly watch over our communities. Citizens on Patrol (COP) have been patrolling the Sunshine Coast for years in an effort to curb crime and assist the RCMP by recording any suspicious activity and letting them know about “hot spots” they should focus on which helps the RCMP to channel resources.
Citizens on Patrol members:
• Patrol in pairs by vehicle or on foot while following the mandate of “observe and report.
• Maintain contact with the on duty RCMP members in addition to providing assistance to the RCMP with other community activities as required;
• Do not take enforcement action.
The program is operated in co-operation with the RCMP, B.C. Crime Prevention Association, with support from local governments and ICBC.
To qualify for membership, you must pass and maintain a security screening required by the RCMP, attend an interview, demonstrate a willingness to participate in the program, abide by the rules, of the program, and be able to commit to a four-hour shift per month. Volunteers must be 19 years of age or older, willing and able to team up with other volunteers to assist police in a non-confrontational way by being an extra set of eyes and ears while on patrol.
For more information or to volunteer contact the Sunshine Coast RCMP at 604-885-2266.
— Submitted
