The Community Policing Office at Spirit Square has closed. The City now operates a Community Safety Office at City Hall that has a mission to support a safe and secure community. This new department incorporates Bylaw Services and continues to support public safety initiatives like Crime Stoppers, Blockwatch, and Crime Prevention Assessments (CPTED). While some services that were previously under the Community Policing Office have now reverted to RCMP services, the Community Safety Office remains a community resource for information and connections.
Who to Contact
911 EMERGENCY (IN-PROGRESS EVENTS ONLY):
For Police, Fire, or Medical Emergencies when immediate action is required, such as when someone’s health, safety, or property is in jeopardy or a crime is in progress. Examples include but are not limited to: fights, screams, gunshots, break and enter with a suspect on scene, robbery, prowler, etc. If you dial 9 1 1 by mistake, please stay on the line and speak with the operator. They need to ensure that you are safe.
LOCAL NON-EMERGENCY RCMP NUMBER:
This 24-hour phone service is the most widely used number for accessing police services. After local office hours, this number is forwarded to the RCMP call center. If you get a recording, please remain on the line and listen to the instructions to be connected with a dispatcher.
CRIME STOPPERS:
Crime Stoppers provides citizens with a way to anonymously supply police with information about a crime or potential crime. Common calls include: major crimes, theft, wanted persons, missing persons, houses selling drugs, responses to social media pleas. Do not use this phone number for active, in-progress, crime reporting.
Visit the Merritt & Nicola Valley Crime Stoppers’ webpage, or Facebook, or submit a web tip.
ONLINE REPORTING:
This RCMP webpage allows citizens to report non-emergent crimes online, enabling the RCMP to address higher-priority calls and improve overall response times. REPORT ONLINE:
* Damage/mischief to property under $5,000 * Damage/mischief to a vehicle under $5,000 * Hit and run to an unoccupied vehicle or property * Theft of bicycle under $5,000 * Theft under $5,000 * Theft from vehicle under $5,000 * Lost property. (Not all crimes can be reported online).
MUNICIPAL BYLAW SERVICES:
City Bylaw Services is not responsible for crime. Crime is under the purview of the Federal Government, which governs the RCMP. Bylaw Services is instead responsible for education and enforcement on City Bylaws. These include animal control, noise control, truck traffic and parking, and unsightly premises. Some of their tasks include vacating and cleaning up homeless camps, promoting the Good Neighbour Bylaw to encourage residents to clear snow, remove junk, and avoid excessive noise. They are also responsible for dog licences and impoundment.
View Bylaw Services. Contact bylaw@merritt.ca. Or call the Bylaw Officer at 250.378.8628. Click here to Report-a-Problem online.
COMMUNITY SAFETY OFFICE:
The City Community Safety Office is not responsible for crime. Crime is under the purview of the Federal Government, which governs the RCMP.
Contact the Community Safety Office if you would like assistance in preventing crime. The Community Safety Office continues to work with initiatives like Crime Stoppers, Blockwatch, and Crime Prevention Assessments (CPTED). They are also a point of contact for who to call if you need to find a resource. Additional resources and tips can be found on this page. See below.
Contact the Community Safety Coordinator: marlene.jones@merritt.ca or call at 250.378.3955.
Community Safety Resources
Auto Crime Prevention
Auto crime is a persistent threat in BC. You can help to reduce these opportunities for thieves by identifying the risks and protecting against them. Be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activity.
Click here for public access to CPIC, where the public can search for property or motor vehicles that have been reported stolen. If your search results in a negative report and you are still faced with suspicions, we encourage you to drop into your local detachment to speak to someone. It’s important to remember that, even though we encourage reporting, not all stolen items are reported in a timely manner.
What you can do:
• Never leave your keys unguarded, such as at the gym or at the office.
• Park in secure, well-lit areas
• Always lock your vehicle
• Remove valuables from your vehicle or at least out of sight
• Keep your garage door opener out of sight
• Use an electronic engine immobilizer or steering wheel lock
• Don’t store a spare key in your vehicle
According to BC Policing reports the most popular items taken from vehicles are:
- Smartphones
- Personal electronics – tables, laptops, iPods, GPS
- Work tools
- Credit Cards and identification
- Stereo equipment
- Cash and change
- Car parts and accessories
- Garage door openers
- Sunglasses
- Keys
There are community-based programs through ICBC, such as Lock Out Auto Crime and the Stolen Auto Recovery program.
Along with the comfort of knowing you have done what you can to prevent auto theft ICBC also offers discounts or rebates.
Click here to find out more.
http://www.icbc.com/road-safety/prevent-autocrime/Pages/Insurance-discounts.aspx
Bicycle Education & Theft Prevention
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.
Block Watch
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/
Child ID
What is the Child Identification Kit?
The Child Identification Kit is a small identity passport containing a child’s photograph, fingerprint, blood type, and hair DNA sample. This identity passport is kept safely by the child’s parent(s) and/or guardian(s).
How They Work?
An ink strip is provided for the child’s fingerprints to be taken, then placed in the special location inside the card. A strand of hair pulled from the root to get the DNA should be placed in the clear bag included in the kit. A current photograph on an annual basis will help keep the information up-to-date. Your child’s birthday is an easily remembered date to do this. Then seal the kit and keep it in a secure but readily accessible location. Should the information ever be needed, the kit will save valuable time.
If you need more information on keeping children safe and what is happening in Canada click here.
https://www.protectchildren.ca/app/en/
Crime Prevention Assessments (CPTED)
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.
Crime Stoppers
Crime Stoppers Merritt & Nicola Valley
Learn more about our local Society at the Merritt & Nicola Valley Crime Stoppers webpage, or follow them on Facebook.
If you would like to report a crime or follow up on a crime that you previously reported, please call 1-800-222-8477 or submit a web tip. We acknowledge and thank Kamloops Crime Stoppers for the support they provide our society which allows for tip follow-up and web tip abilities.
Online Crime Reporting to RCMP
The Merritt RCMP provides an online crime reporting tool for certain types of occurrences.
This is meant to provide citizens with the convenience to report certain crimes online while freeing call takers and frontline staff to focus on the higher priority calls, which improves overall safety and response times in the city.
It is important to know that not all crime can be reported via the online process.
Citizens will be able to report the following crimes online:
- Damage/mischief to property under $5,000
- Damage/mischief to a vehicle under $5,000
- Hit and run to an unoccupied vehicle or property
- Theft of bicycle under $5,000
- Theft under $5,000
- Theft from vehicle under $5,000
- Lost property
Incidents must also satisfy the following conditions to report via the online process:
- No witnesses or suspects.
- Item(s) lost or stolen must cost less than $5,000
- Vandalized property or vehicle will cost less than $5,000 to repair.
There are no items involving personal identity, firearms, licence plates or decals.
For all other reports to the police they must be made via the 911 system, if they are serious in nature and are in progress, or by calling 250-378-4262, if they are of a non-emergency nature.
https://ocre-sielc.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/merritt/en
Scams and Fraud
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.
Seniors Safety
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
What to Do & When to Call
WHAT TO DO WHEN WITNESSING A CRIME OR SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY
- Watch from a safe place and maintain visual continuity the best you can while ensuring your safety.
- Try not to alert the suspect you’re watching or contacting police unless your or someone else’s safety is at immediate risk.
- Safely and discreetly get their What is the suspect doing? If you have a phone and it’s safe, use your phone and record the suspect.
- Once you have called 9-1-1 or non-emergency, DO NOT hang up the phone.
WHEN TO CALL 9-1-1
9-1-1 is for police, fire, or medical emergencies when immediate action is required.
- Someone’s health, safety or property is in jeopardy.
- Life is in danger
- When a crime is in progress.
- Someone is acting aggressively
- A threat to person or property. Violence is being used or threatened
- You hear gunshots
- You are afraid someone will get hurt
- You suspect an impaired driver (drugs or alcohol)
You believe CRIME IS HAPPENING or is about to happen
- Someone is peering into homes or yards.
- Someone broke a window to a home or vehicle.
- Someone is walking down the street checking door handles of homes or vehicles.
- You see a person spray painting graffiti.
You believe something SUSPICIOUS IS HAPPENING right now.
- Someone knocks on your front door, and when you don’t respond to the knock, you hear a knock at your back door.
- Someone is hanging around the parking gate or parkade to your complex for no reason. Given their behaviour, you believe they intend to break into a vehicle or storage lockers located in the parking garage area of the building.
When the CRIME HAS ALREADY HAPPENED, and immediate police attendance will not affect the outcome.
- You saw a drug deal, but the suspects are no longer around.
- You come home from work and notice your home was broken into and the suspects have left and there is no danger.
- There is graffiti on your fence.
- Your bike has been stolen.
If you’re unsure call 9-1-1 and let the call-taker determine the level of response.
_________________________________
CALL NON-EMERGENCY for incidents that do not require an immediate response
- Theft of bicycle (unless in progress)
- House or vehicle break-in (not in progress).
- Noise complaint
- Reporting crime with no suspect
- Ongoing crime which is not in progress
- Report a missing person (call 9-1-1 for missing children or vulnerable people).
REPORT NON-EMERGENT ISSUES ONLINE to help free up the RCMP phone lines and help improve response time. Visit ocre-sielc.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/merritt/en
What Happens when I call? Incident Report Structure
INCIDENT REPORTING STRUCTURE
- YOU SEE OR HEAR SOMETHING SUSPICIOUS OR CRIMINAL
- CALL THE POLICE (YOUR 1ST CALL!)
- 9-1-1 or Non-Emergency for assistance and make your report.
- Ask for your file #
- Once you have called police and made your report, provide details including the file # to your Captain or Co-Captain
- Captain/Co-Captain e-mails the BW team & copies the BW Office
INFORMATION ASKED BY CALL TAKER
- What’s happening? Describe what you see.
- Where is it happening?
- Where are you?
- Your personal info
- What does the Suspect look like?
- Does the Suspect have anything that can be used as a weapon? Do they have bulges in clothing?
- Is there a vehicle involved. Where is it located, which way is it facing?
- If the Suspect has left, what is the time delay, and their last known location?
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND RESOURCES, contact the Community Safety Office at 250-378-3955 or email: marlene.jones@merritt.ca