Calgary

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Community Safety Programs

Programs and services that promote crime prevention and safety awareness in neighborhoods.

Sections

1. Calgary Police Service (CPS) Community Safety Programs

The Calgary Police Service (CPS) plays a central role in community safety, offering several programs aimed at crime prevention, education, and community engagement.

a. Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED)

  • Description: This program helps residents and businesses design their properties to reduce the likelihood of crime. It focuses on lighting, landscaping, and visibility to deter criminal activity.
  • Cost: Free.
  • How to Access: Contact the Calgary Police Service through their non-emergency line at 403-266-1234 or visit their website to request a CPTED assessment.
  • Local Considerations: This program is particularly useful for homeowners, landlords, and business owners in areas with higher crime rates.

b. Neighbourhood Watch

  • Description: A community-driven program where residents work together to monitor and report suspicious activities in their neighborhoods.
  • Cost: Free.
  • How to Access: Join or start a Neighbourhood Watch group by contacting the Calgary Police Service or visiting the Neighbourhood Watch Alberta website.
  • Local Considerations: Active participation is key. Residents are encouraged to attend meetings and stay informed about local crime trends.

c. YouthLink Calgary Police Interpretive Centre

  • Description: An educational program and museum that teaches youth about crime prevention, cyber safety, and the dangers of drugs and gangs.
  • Cost: Free for school groups; general admission fees may apply for public visits.
  • How to Access: Visit the YouthLink website to book a tour or attend an event.
  • Local Considerations: This is an excellent resource for families and schools to educate children about safety in an engaging way.

2. Calgary Fire Department (CFD) Safety Programs

The Calgary Fire Department offers programs to ensure fire safety and emergency preparedness for residents.

a. Home Safety Program

  • Description: Firefighters visit homes to provide free smoke alarm checks, fire safety tips, and advice on creating an emergency escape plan.
  • Cost: Free.
  • How to Access: Call 311 to book a home safety visit.
  • Local Considerations: This program is especially beneficial for families with children or elderly residents.

b. Fire Cadet Program

  • Description: A youth program that teaches participants about firefighting, leadership, and community service.
  • Cost: Free, but participants must apply and meet eligibility requirements.
  • How to Access: Visit the Calgary Fire Department website for application details.
  • Local Considerations: This program is ideal for teenagers interested in a career in emergency services.

3. Calgary Emergency Management Agency (CEMA) Programs

CEMA focuses on preparing the community for emergencies such as floods, severe weather, and other disasters.

a. Ready Calgary

  • Description: A free program that educates residents on emergency preparedness, including creating emergency kits and plans.
  • Cost: Free.
  • How to Access: Register for workshops or access resources online through the City of Calgary website.
  • Local Considerations: Calgary is prone to flooding, especially in areas near the Bow and Elbow Rivers. Residents in these areas should prioritize this program.

b. Emergency Alerts and Notifications

  • Description: A system that provides real-time alerts about emergencies in Calgary.
  • Cost: Free.
  • How to Access: Sign up for alerts through the Alberta Emergency Alert website or download the app.
  • Local Considerations: Ensure your contact information is up-to-date to receive timely notifications.

4. Community-Based Safety Initiatives

Several non-profit organizations and community groups in Calgary also contribute to public safety.

a. Calgary Communities Against Sexual Abuse (CCASA)

  • Description: Provides education, support, and resources to prevent sexual violence and support survivors.
  • Cost: Free for most services.
  • How to Access: Visit the CCASA website or call their support line at 403-237-5888.
  • Local Considerations: CCASA also offers workshops and training for workplaces and schools.

b. Distress Centre Calgary

  • Description: Offers 24/7 crisis support, including a crisis line, online chat, and in-person counseling.
  • Cost: Free.
  • How to Access: Call 403-266-HELP (4357) or visit their website for more information.
  • Local Considerations: This is a vital resource for mental health crises and suicide prevention.

c. Block Watch Program

  • Description: Similar to Neighbourhood Watch, this program encourages residents to work together to monitor and report suspicious activities.
  • Cost: Free.
  • How to Access: Contact your local community association or the Calgary Police Service.
  • Local Considerations: Participation often involves attending community meetings and staying connected with neighbors.

5. Traffic and Pedestrian Safety Programs

Calgary has several initiatives to improve road safety for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.

a. Safer Mobility Plan

  • Description: A city-wide strategy to reduce traffic collisions and improve road safety through education, enforcement, and engineering.
  • Cost: Free.
  • How to Access: Learn more on the City of Calgary website.
  • Local Considerations: Pay attention to school zones, playground zones, and areas with high pedestrian traffic.

b. School Safety Patrol Program

  • Description: A program where students are trained to help their peers cross streets safely near schools.
  • Cost: Free.
  • How to Access: Schools can contact the Alberta Motor Association (AMA) to participate.
  • Local Considerations: This program is widely implemented in Calgary schools and fosters a culture of safety among children.

6. Costs and Funding

Most community safety programs in Calgary are free of charge, as they are funded by the municipal government, provincial grants, or non-profit organizations. However, some programs may have optional costs for additional services or materials.

7. Procedures to Access Programs

  • Online Resources: Many programs can be accessed through the City of Calgary website or the websites of specific organizations.
  • 311 Service: Calgaryโ€™s 311 service is a central hub for information and can connect you to various safety programs.
  • Community Associations: Local community associations often partner with safety programs and can provide information on how to get involved.
  • Workshops and Events: Attend workshops, open houses, or community events to learn more about available programs.

8. Local Considerations

  • Weather Preparedness: Calgary experiences extreme weather, including heavy snow, hailstorms, and floods. Emergency preparedness programs are particularly important.
  • Cultural Diversity: Calgary is a multicultural city, and many programs offer resources in multiple languages to accommodate newcomers.
  • Community Engagement: Active participation in community safety programs not only enhances safety but also fosters a sense of belonging and connection.

By taking advantage of these programs, residents and visitors can contribute to a safer, more connected Calgary. Let me know if youโ€™d like further details on any specific program!