Businesses in Pitt Meadows can now play a part in keeping criminals at bay and streets safe.
This fall, Constables Krista Doncaster and Mathew Condon will be visiting stores and officers to introduce and encourage businesses to register for the Business Watch program.
Once a business completes a registration form, it will get a decal that should be displayed on the business’ front door.
The Business Watch program addresses the needs of the business community by providing a direct opportunity for the RCMP and local businesses to work together to reduce crime and increase safety through prevention, sharing information and education.
“We all want Pitt Meadows to remain a safe community. The Business Watch program is a step in the right direction," said mayor Deb Walters.
Some of the benefits of the business watch program include the distribution of crime prevention material and tools, individual business problem solving, an electronic newsletter for the business community detailing recent crime and issues affecting business.
Free training available to owners and employees on safety, security, and business-related crime and a free security assessment is also available on request.
In the near future, the RCMP will also have the ability to distribute crime alerts to businesses registered with the program.
The Ridge Meadows RCMP are encouraging all business to take an active part in the program by watching for and reporting crime or suspicious behaviour.
"We cannot keep the community safe on our own. Community safety is a shared responsibility,” said RCMP Supt. Dave Walsh.
To learn more about the Business Watch program, please call the Pitt Meadows Community Police Office at 604-465-2402.