Five-Week safety initiative launched in downtown core

Toronto Police Service News Release

Five-Week safety initiative launched in downtown core, Toronto Crime Stoppers video released

Friday, November 30, 2012 - 12:45 PM
52 Division:  416-808-5200

As the holiday season is upon us, our attention is often distracted with gift buying, office luncheons and other celebrations, which makes us vulnerable to crime. Today launched the start of a five-week neighborhood safety initiative in the downtown core. The goal is to remind people to be vigilant, to provide safety reminders and to let the public know there will be an increased police presence in the downtown core to assist you if need be. We want to ensure that everyone coming into the downtown core has a safe experience and feels safe.

Partnering with Toronto Crime Stoppers, 52 Division and 51 Division released a short video today that clearly illustrates ways in which crime can occur within seconds. With an ounce of prevention, we can continue to reducing the number of thefts.



The following are some safety tips:
- Never leave your personal belongings unattended!

- Be alert and aware of your surroundings at all times. Criminals often target people who are distracted

- Place items out of sight in the trunk of your vehicle prior to reaching your destination. Never leave packages on the passenger side or glove compartment of the vehicle when unattended

- Hold on to your cell phone and keep it securely out of sight when not in use

- Carry your wallet in the front pocket of your pants, never in the rear pants pocket which is one of the easiest to pick

- When in a restaurant, a food court or a bar, don’t leave your handbag over the back of your chair, on a stool, or on the floor

- Do not overburden your hands with parcels. Have your car keys ready to unlock and start your vehicle

- Carry your purse close to your body. Never wrap the strap around your body

- Don’t leave belongings such as bags and laptop computers unattended

- Carry only the amount of cash or the number of credit cards necessary to make purchases

- Be wary on con artists. Some divert your attention through distraction tactics such as spilling your drink or bumping into you, while another picks your pocket or steals your purse or merchandise

Remember many crimes are crimes of opportunity. Do not give a thief the opportunity.

Constable Wendy Drummond, Corporate Communications, for Inspector Howie Page, 52 Division

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