Calder Neighbourhood Watch
Neighbourhood Watch
Research has shown that crime is significantly reduced where residents are visibly present and are actively involved on their streets and in their neighborhoods. Individuals out randomly walking are more effective than scheduled citizen patrols.
When individuals are aware of their neighborhood, they are better equipped to recognize and respond when something is not “right”.
- Who? You walk your block.
- How? Take a walk!
- Where? In your neighborhood
- When? Whenever you like
- Why? To prevent crime before it happens
Crimes of opportunity are on the increase throughout the city; particularly in the early morning from 3 am to 6:30 am. The most common of these crimes is checking if a vehicle is unlocked. Most crime is opportunistic and therefore preventable. By following some straightforward advice, and working together, we can ensure that this type of crime is reduced in our community. Some of the advice may sound obvious and rather simple, but it could make all the difference if you follow it consistently. The following should be done each night to prevent crimes of opportunity:
- Remove valuables and garage door openers from vehicles
- Ensure vehicles are locked
- Close overhead garage doors
- Lock doors between garage and house
- Close and lock all external doors
- Ensure windows are shut and secure
- Turn on exterior lights
- Make sure backyard gate is shut and things like bikes are locked in a shed or the garage
Safety tips for runners, walkers, and joggers before you go:
- Scout your route. Know how long your route is, approximately how long it will take to run it, and where you can go in case of emergency.
- If you drive to your running location, do not hide your wallet or purse in your vehicle. Instead, plan ahead and leave personal items such as purses and wallets at home or in another secure location. Take your driver’s license and a small amount of cash or a credit or debit card with you.
- Be sure to lock your vehicle doors and close the windows before leaving the parking lot.
- Do not become predictable. Alter your route and the time of day you go out
While you’re out
- Run, walk, or jog with a partner. If your partner is unavailable, call a friend or family member before you leave and let them know where you’re going and what time you’ll be back. Call again when you’re finished and let them know you’re back.
- Avoid uninhabited streets, derelict areas, and isolated trails.
- Carry a cell phone.
- Carry ID and pertinent medical information with you in case of an emergency.
- Run, walk, or jog against traffic so that you can watch approaching vehicles.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Know how many people are in front of you and how many behind.
- Always be aware of your environment.
- Keep your head up and your eyes open.
- Wear reflective clothing if you are running before dawn or after dusk.
- Take your dog with you. Most dogs love to go out and can act as a criminal deterrent. Take a plastic bag with you so you can clean up after your dog.
- Run to populated areas, busy streets or open businesses if you feel threatened in any way. Do not panic.
- Enjoy your run, walk, or jog.
Click on the following links for information
Calder Community Neighbourhood Watch Facebook page
EPS Neighbourhood Crime Mapping
EPS Non-Emergency Line: 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone.
Also feel free to reach out to Calder's Neighborhood Watch Ambassador Sasha at caldercommunityleague@gmail.com
