Edmonton

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Public Safety Programs

Information about community safety initiatives and public resources.

Sections

1. Crime Prevention and Community Safety Programs

These programs aim to reduce crime and enhance safety in neighborhoods.

a. Neighbourhood Empowerment Teams (NET)

  • Description: NET is a partnership between the City of Edmonton, Edmonton Police Service, and other organizations. It focuses on addressing community-specific safety concerns by working directly with residents.
  • Services: Community engagement, crime prevention education, and problem-solving initiatives.
  • Cost: Free.
  • How to Access: Contact the City of Edmonton or your local police division to inquire about NET services in your area.
  • Local Considerations: NET teams are deployed in specific neighborhoods based on need, so availability may vary.

b. Crime Free Multi-Housing Program

  • Description: This program helps landlords and property managers reduce crime in rental properties through education and property management strategies.
  • Services: Training workshops, property inspections, and certification.
  • Cost: Free for landlords and property managers.
  • How to Access: Visit the Edmonton Police Service website or contact the EPS Crime Prevention Unit.
  • Local Considerations: Participation is voluntary but highly encouraged for rental property owners.

c. Citizensโ€™ Police Academy

  • Description: A program designed to educate residents about the Edmonton Police Service and its operations.
  • Services: Interactive sessions on topics like crime prevention, traffic safety, and emergency response.
  • Cost: Free.
  • How to Access: Applications are available on the EPS website. Enrollment is limited, so apply early.
  • Local Considerations: Sessions are held periodically, and participants must meet eligibility criteria (e.g., age and residency).

2. Emergency Preparedness Programs

These programs help residents prepare for emergencies such as natural disasters, severe weather, or other crises.

a. Edmonton Emergency Management Agency (EEMA)

  • Description: EEMA coordinates the cityโ€™s response to emergencies and provides resources to help residents prepare.
  • Services: Emergency preparedness guides, public workshops, and real-time alerts.
  • Cost: Free.
  • How to Access: Visit the City of Edmontonโ€™s emergency preparedness webpage or download the Alberta Emergency Alert app.
  • Local Considerations: Ensure you are familiar with local risks, such as winter storms and flooding.

b. 72-Hour Emergency Kit Program

  • Description: A public awareness campaign encouraging residents to prepare a 72-hour emergency kit.
  • Services: Checklists and resources for building an emergency kit.
  • Cost: Free to access resources; cost of assembling a kit depends on individual purchases.
  • How to Access: Resources are available on the City of Edmonton website.
  • Local Considerations: Kits should include winter-specific items like warm clothing and blankets.

3. Traffic and Road Safety Programs

These programs focus on reducing traffic-related injuries and fatalities.

a. Vision Zero Edmonton

  • Description: A city-wide initiative to eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries.
  • Services: Public awareness campaigns, traffic calming measures, and data-driven safety improvements.
  • Cost: Free.
  • How to Access: Learn more on the Vision Zero Edmonton website or report traffic safety concerns through the cityโ€™s 311 service.
  • Local Considerations: Be aware of speed limits and pedestrian safety zones, especially in school areas.

b. School Safety Patrol Program

  • Description: A program that trains students to assist with pedestrian safety near schools.
  • Services: Training for student volunteers and support for schools.
  • Cost: Free for participating schools.
  • How to Access: Schools can contact the Alberta Motor Association (AMA) to enroll.
  • Local Considerations: This program is active during the school year and requires school administration involvement.

4. Personal and Community Safety Programs

These programs focus on individual and group safety in various settings.

a. REACH Edmonton

  • Description: A community-based organization that works to make Edmonton a safer city through collaboration and innovation.
  • Services: Programs like 24/7 Crisis Diversion, which provides support for individuals in non-emergency crises.
  • Cost: Free.
  • How to Access: Call 211 to access the 24/7 Crisis Diversion service or visit the REACH Edmonton website for other programs.
  • Local Considerations: Services are available city-wide, but response times may vary depending on demand.

b. Block Watch Program

  • Description: A community-driven program where neighbors work together to prevent crime.
  • Services: Training, resources, and support for organizing neighborhood watch groups.
  • Cost: Free.
  • How to Access: Contact the Edmonton Police Service or your community league to start or join a Block Watch group.
  • Local Considerations: Participation requires active involvement from community members.

5. Fire and Rescue Safety Programs

These programs are managed by Edmonton Fire Rescue Services (EFRS) to promote fire safety and emergency response.

a. Fire Safety Education

  • Description: Public education programs on fire prevention and safety.
  • Services: School presentations, fire station tours, and community workshops.
  • Cost: Free.
  • How to Access: Contact Edmonton Fire Rescue Services or visit their website for more information.
  • Local Considerations: Programs are tailored to different age groups and community needs.

b. Home Fire Safety Program

  • Description: A program that provides free smoke alarm installations and fire safety checks for eligible households.
  • Services: Installation of smoke alarms and fire safety education.
  • Cost: Free for eligible households.
  • How to Access: Call 311 to inquire about eligibility and schedule a visit.
  • Local Considerations: Priority is given to low-income households and seniors.

6. Youth and Vulnerable Population Safety Programs

These programs focus on protecting youth and vulnerable populations.

a. Youth Empowerment and Support Services (YESS)

  • Description: A non-profit organization providing support for at-risk youth.
  • Services: Emergency shelter, counseling, and life skills programs.
  • Cost: Free for youth in need.
  • How to Access: Visit the YESS website or call their crisis line.
  • Local Considerations: Services are targeted at youth aged 15-24.

b. Family Violence Prevention Program

  • Description: A program to support individuals experiencing family violence.
  • Services: Counseling, emergency shelter referrals, and safety planning.
  • Cost: Free.
  • How to Access: Call 211 or visit the City of Edmontonโ€™s family violence prevention webpage.
  • Local Considerations: Confidentiality is prioritized, and services are available in multiple languages.

Additional Resources

  • 311 Service: For non-emergency inquiries about city services, including public safety programs.
  • 211 Alberta: A helpline for accessing social, health, and community services.
  • Edmonton Police Service Non-Emergency Line: Call 780-423-4567 for non-urgent police matters.

Conclusion

Edmonton offers a wide range of public safety programs to address the diverse needs of its residents and visitors. Most programs are free and easily accessible, with a focus on community involvement and education. Whether youโ€™re a new resident or a visitor, these programs can help you feel safe and supported in the city. For more information, visit the City of Edmontonโ€™s official website or contact the relevant organizations directly.