Community Safety Office

IMPORTANT INFO RE:  E-BIKING IN BC

As of April 5th, 2024, there are new E-Bike rules in BC. Check out the BC Government information and the Regulations for all you need to know.

Bike use is increasing in Merritt and along with that comes an increase in opportunity for theft.  We encourage all bike owners to register their bikes with the 529 Garage App as part of their theft prevention measures.  This not only helps to prevent theft but, in the case where a theft does occur this registration helps you to identify your bike.  It also increases the likelihood that you will get it returned.
If your bike is stolen, your first step should be to report it to the RCMP at 250-378-4262.  If you locate a bike and don’t know who owns it we ask that you contact Bylaw Services at 250-378-8628.

Here are some other things to consider when trying to prevent theft

• Invest in quality “D” or “U” locks that physically lock at both ends. Avoid cable locks as a good set of bolt cutters will take only seconds to cut through.
• Always keep your bike in a public space, never leave it unlocked even if you’re only away for a couple minutes, and never leave your bike parked outside overnight.
• When locking your bike, secure it to something immovable and preferably metal. Bike thieves will not hesitate to cut through an object if it is weaker than your lock.

Register your bike or download the app on the 529 Garage website, or bring it to the Community Policing Office and someone can do that with you.

Watch a video to learn about Garage 529 with VPD and the RCMP

Be safe on the road when you’re cycling with these simple tips from ICBC and the RCMP:

• Reflect on safety. Be extra visible with reflective gear on your bicycle pedals and wheels.
• Don’t ride on the sidewalk. If there’s no bike lane, keep to the right-hand side of the road as much as it’s safe to do so. It’s illegal to ride on most sidewalks and crosswalks.
• Follow the rules of the road. Make sure you obey all traffic signs and signals and adhere to the rules of the road.
• Use caution around parked vehicles. Be aware of people in vehicles as well as taxis to avoid getting hit by an opening door. Try to keep at least once metre away from parked vehicles.
• Shoulder check. Use hand signals and shoulder check in advance before taking any turns. Remember, drivers sometimes fail to yield right-of-way.
• Protect yourself before cycling. Always wear an approved bicycle helmet that meets safety standards (CSA, ANSI, ASTM or SNELL B-95) and occasionally check for signs of wear.  Wearing a helmet is the law in B.C. and you could be fined for not wearing one.

In June each year, the Community Safety Office volunteer team partners with schools and other organizations to help teach bike handling and safety tips at locally organized bike rodeos.  If you would like more information before then please contact our office or go online to Can Bike.

The Community Safety Office also has free safety packages available for those using motorized mobility vehicles.

The Block Watch Program was started in BC in 1986, and has been active in Merritt since 2007.  This program builds safer neighborhoods by encouraging residents to take a proactive approach to crime prevention and safety through education.  It also encourages property marking and reporting suspicious activity. We welcome anyone who is interested in being a part of this program to contact the Community Safety Office.

We believe that the Block Watch Program:
• Fights the isolation and separation that crime creates and feeds upon,
• Forges bonds among area residents and businesses,
• Builds community safety,
• and improves relations between the police and the community they serve

Starting a Block Watch

In order to start the process you will need to ensure that  you have at least 5 homes willing to participate.  There must be one person who is willing to be the Captain and one who will be a Co-Captain.  These are the only two individuals who must fill in paperwork, including a policing information check.

Once that is complete the Community Safety Office can help you set up your participant list and create a Block Watch map.  They will also offer a volunteer training session and have your neighbourhood signs installed.  Once you are this far we encourage each Block Watch to hold an annual Block Part at least every 2nd year.  If you are concerned about that, the Community Safety Office can help there too.

Block Watch doesn’t take a lot of time, and it can help to build community around where you live and rise your family.

If you have any questions, you can also email our team at  blockwatch@merritt.ca

For more information click here.
http://blockwatch.com/

Crime Prevention Though Environmental Design (CPTED) is a crime prevention approach focusing on the built environment.  It involves assessing four design concepts including natural surveillance, access control, territoriality, and maintenance.  The main objective of CPTED is to reduce the opportunity for crime and to promote a feeling of safety for all those using the space.

Property owners may be experiencing reoccurring issues and not realize why others see an opportunity for negative behaviours or crime.

Community Safety Office staff are trained to offer an assessment for property owners and we encourage all those who are interested to reach out for help to identify ways to increase safety.

CPTED Tips

• Ensure decorative landscaping does not provide an area for someone to hide within your property
• Install fencing that demonstrates a clear property boundary and can be locked to prevent easy access
• Install bright security lighting using motion detectors to provide light while conserving energy when you can
• Secure all sheds and outbuildings with locks and put away belongings to deter theft

If you would like an assessment, please contact the Community Safety Office to make an appointment.

SCAMS + FRAUD

In today’s digital world, scams and frauds have seen a significant increase, posing serious risks to individuals and businesses.  From phishing emails to fraudulent phone calls and deceptive online schemes, the methods used by fraudsters continue to evolve making it crucial for everyone to remain vigilant.  Protecting yourself requires staying informed and exercising caution when communicating with others.

The Canadian Anti-fraud Centre is a great resource to help you and we recommend using their site to educate yourself.

Check out several of the recent scams reported in our area including the Bank Investigator, Canada Revenue Agency, Grandparent scam, and Sextortion.

Competition Bureau of Canada – The little Black Book of Scams
Bank of Canada – counterfeit prevention
Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre –  recent fraud activities
Want to search photos online? – Click here for a video to show you how.

Fraud is the #1 crime against seniors.  The reasons seniors are often targeted include:  Seniors often live alone, seniors may have more savings, and seniors are often more trusting than younger people.

There are many things you can do to help protect yourself and your family.  We encourage you to have a look at these resources and if you have any other questions or would like a presentation for your group, please drop in to the Community Policing Office to speak to staff.

Safety links

Better Business Bureau Scam Tracker

Seniors First BC Resources

The little black book of scams