City crews ready to tackle potholes on Toronto streets

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:

========================================

News Release:  February 28, 2013

City crews ready to tackle potholes on Toronto streets

Following the snow storm of the past two days, the City of Toronto is actively patrolling for potholes as they form on city streets.

“With the freeze-thaw cycles that have taken place this past winter, there is always an increase in the number of potholes on our roads,” said Councillor Denzil Minnan-Wong (Ward 34 Don Valley East), Chair of the City's Public Works and Infrastructure Committee.  “Our crews work hard throughout the winter, when not involved in snow operations, to fix potholes in order to prevent the situation from worsening in the spring."

City crews are ready to deal with emergency pothole situations with temporary repairs and, early next week, when conditions are expected to become drier and more favourable, crews will make more permanent repairs. In addition, the City will be doubling the number of staff fixing potholes to almost 100 (25-30 crews) over the next few weeks. 

During the last three years, the City of Toronto has repaired an average of 200,000 potholes per year. The City spends approximately $4 million per year to fix potholes.

Residents are asked to call 311 to report potholes so that crews can be assigned to fix them.  Here are some tips that will assist our staff:

• Provide the precise location of the pothole (nearest cross streets, street address if possible)
• Provide the exact location within the roadway where the pothole is located
• Estimate the size of the pothole

While city staff usually repair potholes within five days, requests are prioritized based on the amount of traffic on the road and the severity of the pothole.

Toronto is Canada's largest city and sixth largest government, and home to a diverse population of about 2.7 million people. Toronto's government is dedicated to delivering customer service excellence, creating a transparent and accountable government, reducing the size and cost of government and building a transportation city. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can dial 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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Media contact:  Steve Johnston, Senior Communications Coordinator, 416-392-4391, sjohnsto@toronto.ca

Crime Stoppers targets gun violence

Tanasha Smith and Roshea Gunnis A Crime Stoppers public-awareness campaign aimed at gun violence was punctuated by a poignant plea for information to solve the murder of Jarvis Montaque. With the increase in gun violence in the city in the past few weeks, Crime Stoppers sped up the launch of its new posters, “You Remain Anonymous, Crime Does Not,” designed by DDB Canada. The launch took place in 23 Division where two 15-year-olds, including Montaque, were fatally gunned down this month. “We have been working on this for a couple of months and then, when the shootings started happening in the city and here in 23 Division with Jarvis, it was time to speed up this campaign,” said Toronto Crime Stoppers Chair Lorne Simon. He added that the posters will be displayed in Mac’s Convenience Stores’ digital monitors and transit shelters, on billboards and at Humber College. Supt. Ron Taverner, unit commander at 23 Division, said it’s important that the new campaign was launched in the community that has been the victim of such violence. “We can deliver it, not only in schools, but also public areas to get the message out there that we do need the cooperation of the public,” he said. Montaque, who attended Father Henry Carr Secondary School, was murdered while listening to music with some friends outside his Jamestown residence. He’s the third 15-year-old to succumb to gun violence in the city this year. Jarvis’s sisters – Tanasha Smith and Roshea Gunnis – made a plea for information that will lead to their brother’s killer or killers. They said their brother was an ambitious young man with a bright future ahead of him. “I just want to let everybody know that my brother was an amazing person and that he didn’t deserve to be taken away from us,” said Gunnis, before being overcome by tears. “Jarvis did not surround himself with negativity. He came to Canada with an ambition to become a soldier and fight for Canada.” With that dream shattered, his grieving family is left with memories of a young life ended violently, while trying to come to grips with his death. “Could it be jealousy or a girlfriend?,” Smith said, of the questions family members have been asking themselves since their sibling’s murder. “Then, again, he had lots of friends, but no girlfriend. Not knowing why hurts so much.” Smith said she has watched over the years as violent crime has increased in her community, snuffing out young lives in the process. She pointed out it does not take much these days for someone to pull a trigger. “You could be wearing a colour or rapping a tune someone doesn’t like,” she added. “Having a gun gives people a lot of power. As long as they have it, they become invincible and no one can do anything about that. They have the power.” Displaying strength and equanimity in the face of a devastating family crisis, Smith appealed directly to the killer to surrender. “Find a lawyer, find someone you trust, and turn yourself into police,” she said. “It will bring some sort of comfort to us to know that the person that walked up that night and pulled the trigger to end Jarvis’ life has come forward.” Montaque’s death was the city’s eighth homicide of the year. D/Sgt. Gary Giroux said he has all the investigative resources at his disposal to assist in finding the individual responsible for Montaque’s death. He, however, pointed out that witness participation is going to be paramount in the investigation. “I need witnesses to come forward and to speak to me truthfully about the information they have received in regards to what happened to Jarvis on that particular night,” he said. “That information I can take to the Crown Attorney’s office to move forward with criminal charges.” Crime Stoppers coordinator Detective Darlene Ross also appealed for witnesses to come forward. “Any information that you provide to us could be helpful in the smallest of ways and may send officers in the right direction to solve the crime,” she added. “…These posters are the epitome of what the Crime Stoppers program is about. It’s about seeing the crime but not been able to identify the person who is providing the information.” Anyone with information can contact the Homicide Squad at (416) 808-7400, Crime Stoppers anonymously at (416) 222-TIPS (8477), online at www.222tips.com, text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637) or Leave a Tip on Facebook. Source

Fraud Prevention Month 2013 launch

Toronto Police Service News Release

Media advisory, Thursday, February 28, 2013, 10 a.m., Headquarters, auditorium

Fraud Prevention Month 2013 launch

Twitter hashtag #FPM2013

Wednesday, February 27, 2013 - 2:00 PM
Financial Crimes Unit:  416-808-7300

On Thursday, February 28, 2013, at 10 a.m., at police headquarters, in the 2nd-floor auditorium, Fraud Prevention Month will be launched by law enforcement agencies, regulatory agencies, government ministries, community advocacy groups and the private sector. 

March is Fraud Prevention Month. Fraud is a growing concern to Canadians and is one the few crimes that continues to grow in numbers, scope and complexity.

Joan Filip, a senior and resident of Toronto, will launch the event by sharing her experience of being defrauded. She will discuss how fraud affects seniors. 

A panel of leaders within this group will discuss fraud and financial crimes from their various perspectives and experiences. 

Information booths will be provided to assist the media and community to understand better the extent of fraud in their communities.

The Seneca College Graphic Design Program created the TPS campaign for Fraud Prevention Month. The focus of the campaign is Fraud and Seniors. These students will be in attendance, along with the President of Seneca College.

The following agencies will be present at this launch:

Financial Services Commission of Ontario
Ontario Ministry of Consumer Services
Insurance Bureau of Canada
Crime Prevention Association of Toronto 
Royal Canadian Mounted Police
Ontario Provincial Police
Bank of Canada
Industry Canada – Competition Bureau
Canadian Healthcare Anti-Fraud Association
Canadian Bankers Association
Toronto Police Service

Representatives from these organizations will be available to the media at the conclusion of the launch.

Constable Wendy Drummond, Corporate Communications, for Staff Inspector Bryce Evans, Financial Crimes Unit

Source


 

Heavy snow forecast for Toronto: Winter driving tips

Toronto Police Service News Release

Heavy snow forecast, Winter driving tips

Tuesday, February 26, 2013 - 3:15 PM
Traffic Services:  416-808-1900

Tuesday through Wednesday's forecast is anticipating increased snowfall in the Toronto area. To ensure you are ready, here are some reminders from the Toronto Police Service:

Driving – avoid any unnecessary trips:

- slow down and leave more space; driving slower allows more time for reaction and reduces stopping distances
- look well beyond where you are traveling and use your mirrors to be aware of your surroundings and other traffic
- try to identify possible hazards well in advance
- drive within your ability, as well as the vehicle's limits and the equipment you have for the conditions
- continually evaluate the need for driving, changing environmental conditions and road conditions
- avoid driving while wearing heavy boots, gloves and cumbersome coats. Carry these items with you. The size of these items can hinder your ability to feel the controls and limit your movement.

Equipment:

- tires: whether you are opting for winter, snow or all-season tires, ensure they are in good condition and properly inflated
- battery: have your vehicle's electrical system and battery level checked to ensure adequate cold-weather starts
- wipers: change worn or broken blades
- washer fluid: reservoirs should be filled, and carry an extra container of fluid
- booster cables: a set of cables is great insurance to help not only you, but others
- snow brush/scraper: a long-handled brush, scraper or a broom are essential for clearing your entire vehicle of snow and ice

Extras:

- pack a survival kit for the winter driving season
- include food, water, blankets, candles, lighter/matches, winter boots, gloves, and hats

Constable Tony Vella, Corporate Communications, for Constable Clinton Stibbe, Traffic Services

Source

Toronto Crime Stoppers launch new campaign

Toronto Police Service News Release

Media advisory, Tuesday, February 26, 2013, 11 a.m., 23 Division, 5230 Finch Avenue West, Toronto Crime Stoppers launch new campaign

Monday, February 25, 2013 - 5:00 PM
Corporate Communications:  416-808-7100

On Tuesday, February 26, 2013, at 11 a.m., at 23 Division, 5230 Finch Avenue West, Toronto Crime Stoppers, in partnership with Toronto Police Service 23 Division and DDB Toronto, will be launching their latest Anonymous Campaign.

The new posters, "You Remain Anonymous, Crime Does Not," encourage the use of Crime Stoppers to report crime without ever having to disclose your identity.

The campaign will be distributed throughout 23 Division, as well as other Toronto Police Service Divisions across the city, and can be seen electronically in Mac's stores throughout Toronto.

For more information, please contact Lorne Simon, Toronto Crime Stoppers, at 416-560-6441.

Crime Stoppers can be reached by calling 416-222-TIPS (8477), online at www.222tips.com, text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637), or Leave A Tip on Facebook. Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.

Meaghan Gray, Corporate Communications

Source

 

Is This Bike Stolen!?!??!

http://isthisbikestolen.com/

Buying a stolen bicycle is a crime and encourages bike theft. This tool lets you check a bicycle’s serial number against the Canada-wide CPIC police database to see if it has been reported as stolen. Not only do you avoid buying a stolen bike, but you also help deter bike thieves from selling stolen goods if they know they are more likely to be caught.

If you suspect a bicycle is stolen but the serial number doesn’t show up positive, this could be due to a number of reasons:

*The theft could not have been reported.
*There is a delay from when a theft is reported to the serial number being added to the database.
*You could have entered the serial number incorrectly or missed a number.

Remember: if the price is too good to be true, it probably is stolen.

2013 Fraud Prevention Month Launch

2013 Fraud Prevention Month Launch is a Week AWAY
********************************************
Toronto, CANADA
Twitter Hashtag: #FPM2013

On Thursday, February 28th, 2013 at 10AM, at Toronto Police Headquarters Auditorium, a collaboration of many agencies and companies are joining together to launch this month long campaign. The following will be there:

Bank of Canada 
Canadian Association of Accredited Mortgage Professionals
Crime Prevention Association of Toronto
Financial Services Commission of Ontario
Industry Canada - Competition Bureau
Insurance Bureau of Canada
Investors Education Fund
Ontario Provincial Police
Ontario Securities Commission
Real Estate Council of Ontario
Royal Canadian Mounted Police
Toronto Police Service
U.S. Federal Trade Commission

SENECA COLLEGE CREATES THE OFFICIAL FRAUD PREVENTION MONTH CAMPAIGNS FOR THE TORONTO POLICE SERVICE:

The Toronto Police Service will digitally unveil a series of campaigns to help promote fraud prevention and our Seniors. The Seneca College Graphic Design Program partnered with us to create a series of unique and stunning campaigns to help protect our Seniors. please join us for the month of March and make our families and communities safer from fraud and financial crimes.

Source

#Fraudchat is a success

#Fraudchat is a success

The Financial Crimes Unit (FCU) is using social media to share ideas and strengthen partnerships. The Financial Crimes Unit (FCU) is using social media to share ideas and strengthen partnerships. Beginning late last Nov., the FCU and the Financial Service Commission of Ontario (FSCO) began hosting a one-hour online twitter chat -- #Fraudchat – to educate the public about financial crimes and fraud. “The response so far has been overwhelming,” said Det. Sgt. Cameron Field. “We have received positive feedback from around the country and the United States, the United Kingdom, Sweden and Africa. It’s really turned into a nice platform to educate people about fraud prevention.” Field said the idea was conceived during a meeting, four months ago, with FSCO senior communications officer Kristen Rose. “We were looking at ways that we could collaborate more on social media to promote fraud prevention and fraud awareness and one of the ideas that we came up with was a weekly information program on Twitter,” said Field. “Part of the plan is to pull in experts, community groups and other agencies that have a specific knowledge of the topic we are dealing with and the public can log on to Twitter or tweet-chat over some platform like that and actually follow the program and ask the panel questions.” The program is aired on Thursdays from 9-10 p.m. and individuals can follow it by logging on to Twitter and typing in #Fraudchat. Other applications like “www.tweetchat.com” are also helpful in following and contributing to the program. The Feb. 28 program deals with fraud and scams targeting seniors, the March 7 program will address home renovation scams and auto insurance fraud will be the focus of the March 14 program. The March 21 and 28 programs will address life insurance and staged motor vehicle accident frauds respectively. Field said social media offers the opportunity to enhance and amplify his unit’s fraud prevention and awareness messages. “One of the things about fraud is that it’s one of the few crime indicators constantly going up,” he said. “If all crime goes down, fraud goes down the least. If crime goes up, we are definitely going up, sometimes by double digits, so there is a real need to increase our education of the public.” National Fraud Prevention Month is celebrated in March. Follow CPLC at @CPLC51Division Follow Kristen Rose at @kristenjrose Source

City of Toronto issues Extreme Cold Weather Alert and advises homeless people to seek shelter

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:
==========================================

News Release:  February 16, 2013
  
City of Toronto issues Extreme Cold Weather Alert and advises homeless people to seek shelter 

The City of Toronto has called an Extreme Cold Weather Alert to make vulnerable homeless people in Toronto aware of the dangers of staying outside too long in cold weather and to ensure they have safe and warm places to go. The alert is in effect until further notice.

An Extreme Cold Weather Alert is called to trigger additional homelessness services. Alerts are typically called in the morning for the coming overnight period so that community agencies have sufficient time to call in extra staff to provide enhanced services.

During an Extreme Cold Weather Alert: 
• Shelters are directed to relax any existing service restrictions and are reminded that if a bed is not available at their site they are to allow the client to stay at the shelter until they are able to find a bed for them elsewhere in the system. 
• The City of Toronto immediately adds 172 shelter spaces to those available to staff looking to refer a client to a shelter bed.
• Overnight street outreach is increased in the downtown core, focusing solely on warning people of danger and urging them to get into a shelter or another warm, indoor place. Workers will transport people to warm places if necessary. 
• TTC tokens are available at some drop-ins so people can use public transit to get to shelters.
• More than 100 agencies are advised of the oncoming extreme weather and asked to relax any service restrictions they may have.

An alert is called when there is increased danger to homeless people from extreme cold weather or extreme winter weather conditions. It is usually called in the morning when Environment Canada:
• predicts a coming overnight temperature of -15 degrees Celsius or lower, without wind chill;
• issues a wind chill warning for outdoor activity for people in the Toronto area; and/or
• predicts extreme weather conditions such as a blizzard, ice storm or sudden drops in temperature.

How to get an emergency shelter bed any day, any hour:
Call 311 or directly contact the City of Toronto's Central Intake line within the Greater Toronto Area toll-free at 1-877-338 3398, or go in person to the Streets to Homes Assessment and Referral Centre, located at 129 Peter St. (at Richmond Street).

The Streets to Homes Assessment and Referral Centre is always open and has 24-hour street respite for those who do not want a shelter bed, as well as walk-in access to shelter beds throughout the system. Housing workers are available Monday to Friday to assist street-involved people to find permanent housing. 

If you see someone who you think requires street outreach assistance, call 311. It is not an emergency number. In an emergency, dial 911.

Toronto is Canada's largest city and sixth largest government, and home to a diverse population of about 2.7 million people. Toronto's government is dedicated to delivering customer service excellence, creating a transparent and accountable government, reducing the size and cost of government and building a transportation city. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can dial 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

More information is available at http://www.toronto.ca/housing.

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Media contact: Pat Anderson, Manager, Shelter, Support and Housing Administration, panders@toronto.ca 

Domestic violence police priority

Domestic violence police priority

Domestic violence cases are taken very seriously by Toronto Police, Const. Abdul Nuri told nearly 400 delegates at the third annual Umnah Nabawiah Majid Islamic conference in Rexdale. Nuri said the Service works very closely with community partners to ensure that victims of domestic violence get the help they need to escape their abusers and start the process of getting back on track with their lives. The 55 Division officer said some of the warning signs of domestic violence include prolonged absences from work/school, low self-esteem, personality changes, fear of conflict, self-blame and drug-/alcohol-abuse problems. “These may be caused by lack of resources, controlling relationships, poorly defined masculinity and identity, mental illness and marital conflict,” Nuri said. He said his presentation generated a lot of interest and he relished interacting with the audience at the end of it. “I spent a fair amount of time after the presentation answering questions on the role of police in domestic situations, along with the services we provide and references we give to various organizations assisting victims of domestic violence,” Nuri said. For domestic violence police and social agency resources, click here. Source

Man charged in armed robbery investigation

Toronto Police Service News Release

Man charged in armed robbery investigation

Thursday, February 14, 2013 - 12:09 PM
51 Division:  416-808-7350

On Friday, July 20, 2012, at 9 p.m., police responded to an armed robbery call at a grocery store on Gerrard Street East.

It is alleged that:

- an employee was in the cash office when a man forced his way into the office, armed with a knife

- the man made a demand for cash and threatened the employee

- the employee complied and the man fled the office with a quantity of cash

The suspect was identified as Matthew Macfarlane, 34.

A Canada-Wide warrant was issued for his arrest.

On Wednesday, February 13, 2013, he was arrested in Vancouver and returned to Toronto.

He was scheduled to appear in court at College Park on Thursday, February 14, 2013, 10 a.m., room 506.

Constable Wendy Drummond, Corporate Communications, for Staff Inspector Mike Earl, Hold Up Squad

Source

Toronto Police Service conducts victim/witness survey

Toronto Police Service News Release

Toronto Police Service conducts victim/witness survey

Tuesday, February 12, 2013 - 1:07 PM
Divisional Policing Support Unit:  416-808-0129

The Toronto Police Service is conducting a victim/witness survey as part of the new Victim Witness Support Strategy. The new strategy is designed to enhance the capacity of the TPS to respond effectively to the needs of victims and witnesses of crime.

Victims and witnesses of crime, past and present, are encouraged to take part in this anonymous survey by clicking here or by visiting the TPS website and locating the survey on the top left-hand-corner of the homepage.

The public’s participation in this survey is important as it will assist and enable the TPS to gather and promote effective practices, enable dialogue, problem-solving and innovation across Toronto as well as focus Service-wide attention on the needs of victims and witnesses of crime.

For further information regarding this survey, please contact Sergeant Theresa Monaghan, Divisional Policing Support Unit, at 416-808-0129 or theresa.monaghan@torontopolice.on.ca

Constable Wendy Drummond, Corporate Communications, for Sergeant Theresa Monaghan, Divisional Policing Support Unit

 

“Don’t Drive Distracted”

Toronto Police Service News Release

Media advisory, Monday, February 11, 2013 to Sunday, February 17, 2013, “Don’t Drive Distracted”

Monday, February 11, 2013 - 1:33 PM
Traffic Services:  416-808-1900

The Toronto Police Service will be launching the "Don't Drive Distracted"” campaign, starting Monday, February 11, 2013, concluding on Sunday, February 17, 2013.

This traffic-safety initiative highlights the dangerous activities associated with drivers who continue to use hand-held cell phones, and hand-held communications and entertainment devices while driving.

Provincial legislation came into effect on October 26, 2009, focusing on educating drivers about Ontario's new road laws and creating specific offences for this dangerous-driving behaviour.

The legislation states that drivers must use only wireless devices that can be used in a hands-free manner:

- a cell phone with an earpiece or headset using voice dialling or plugged into the vehicle's sound system

- a global positioning system (GPS) device that is properly secured to the dashboard or another accessible place in the vehicle

- a portable audio player that has been plugged into the vehicle's sound system 

9-1-1 calls for emergency assistance are permitted under the legislation.

Distracted driving is any action a driver engages in that does not have to do with the operation of a vehicle. Some actions may not be considered distractions by some drivers. We need to understand that these distractions are commonplace on today’s roads and fall into three categories:

1) manual distractions – when you take your hands of the wheel
2) visual distractions – removing your eyes from the sight of the road
3) cognitive distractions – distracted by thinking about something else

The hands-free distracted-driving law makes it illegal for drivers to talk, text, type, dial or email using hand-held communications and entertainment devices.

There are other distractions that can also affect a driver's focus. Some common ones to consider:

- eating while driving
- driving with an unsecured pet
- slowing down to look at a collision scene
- applying cosmetics or personal grooming

Although it may be unintentional, the charges for engaging in this kind of distractive behavior can be considered careless or even dangerous, when drivers put both themselves and others at risk of injury.

Constable Wendy Drummond, Corporate Communications, for Constable Clint Stibbe, Traffic Services

Source

 

Public Safety Alert, Coyote sighting in Sackville Street/Carlton Street area

Toronto Police Service News Release

Public Safety Alert, Coyote sighting in Sackville Street/Carlton Street area

Monday, February 11, 2013 - 11:28 AM
51 Division:  416-808-5100

The Toronto Police Service would like to make the public aware of a recent coyote sighting in Toronto.

On Sunday, February 10, 2013, at 9:10 p.m., police were alerted by residents about a large coyote roaming the Sackville Street/Carlton Street neighbourhood. Officers attended and located the coyote but it ran off into the ravine near Wellesley Park. 

Police are reminding residents to use caution and never leave small children or pets unsupervised. 

Here are some practical steps that will help to minimize negative encounters with coyotes:

• Never feed a coyote or any wild animal. Feeding wild animals is detrimental to the community and to the animals 
• Do not feed domestic pets outside
• Ensure all household garbage is inaccessible to animals
• Place garbage at the curb the morning of the scheduled pick-up
• Consider using green bins instead of composters for food waste
• Always supervise pets - keep dogs on a leash and cats indoors or supervised while outside
• Remove dense brush and weeds around property to minimize hiding spots for coyotes
• If you encounter a coyote, wave your arms aggressively, make loud noises, and throw objects in its direction (but not at it) to scare it away. These actions teach coyotes to be afraid of humans and this will minimize conflicts. If these actions do not scare a coyote, back away slowly from the animal. Do not turn your back or attempt to run away.

Animal Services advises that coyotes are a normal part of the city and have been more active during this milder winter than usual. Further information regarding coyotes and preventative measures can be found on their website.

Click here for more information.

Constable Wendy Drummond, Corporate Communications, for Detective Dave Dickinson, 51 Division

Source

 

 

Lessons from London and Rio for Toronto 2015 Pan Am/Parapan Am Games

http://www.eventbrite.com/event/5396466978/?ref=enivtefor001&invite=MzA3NTc5Ni9qYmVkZG9lczA1MDdAcm9nZXJzLmNvbS8w&utm_source=eb_email&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=inviteformalv2&utm_term=attend&ref=enivtefor001

City of Toronto programs and services update

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:
======================================
News Release:  February 8, 2013          
         
City of Toronto programs and services update

Most City of Toronto offices, programs and services continue to operate as usual; however, there are some impacts due to current weather conditions.

Community centres, permits and recreation programs, including those at Toronto District School Board (TDSB) and Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB) locations, will proceed this afternoon and this evening as scheduled.  Participants may wish to contact their local centre for any program specific updates before heading out.

Indoor arenas and the City's Ski and Snowboard Centres at Earl Bales Park and Centennial Park remain open, with all scheduled programs and permits operating.

Some outdoor artificial ice rinks may close due to the heavy snowfall.  Every attempt will be made to ensure outdoor artificial ice rinks are open tomorrow as usual.

City of Toronto child care centres remain open and staff will remain at child care centres until all children are picked up.

Regularly scheduled waste collection is underway. Solid Waste crews are out, however, due to conditions routes may not be completed until tomorrow.  Residents are asked to leave their waste out at the curb.

Transportation crews are plowing continuously on the main routes, and are beginning to plow local roads this afternoon.  Residents are asked to take public transport and avoid driving if possible.  If it is necessary to drive, residents are reminded to do so cautiously and slowly.  Drivers are asked to avoid parking on streets where possible so plows can get through.

When shovelling, residents are reminded not to over-exert themselves, consider their fitness level, and take frequent breaks.  Those who are able to do so, please offer to help elderly neighbours or those individuals who may need some assistance.  Please do not push snow back out onto the roadway.

The City's Extreme Cold Weather Alert remains in effect and the City advises homeless people outdoors to seek shelter. An Extreme Weather Alert is called to trigger additional homelessness services.  To get an emergency shelter bed any day, any hour, call 311 or directly contact the City of Toronto's Central Intake line within the Greater Toronto Area toll-free at 1-877-338 3398, or go in person to the Streets to Homes Assessment and Referral Centre, located at 129 Peter St. (at Richmond Street).

The Streets to Homes Assessment and Referral Centre is always open and has 24-hour street respite for those who do not want a shelter bed, as well as walk-in access to shelter beds throughout the system. Housing workers are available Monday to Friday to assist street-involved people to find permanent housing.

If you see someone whom you think requires street outreach assistance, call 311. It is not an emergency number. In an emergency, dial 911.

The Extreme Cold Weather Alert remains in effect until further notice.

Toronto is Canada's largest city and sixth largest government, and home to a diverse population of about 2.7 million people. Toronto's government is dedicated to delivering customer service excellence, creating a transparent and accountable government, reducing the size and cost of government and building a transportation city. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can dial 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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Media contact: Wynna Brown, Strategic Communications, 416-919-6503, wbrown1@toronto.ca

Woman, 21; man, 23, arrested following shooting at 220 Oak Street

Toronto Police Service News Release

Woman, 21; man, 23, arrested following shooting at 220 Oak Street

Thursday, February 7, 2013 - 11:05 AM
51 Division:  416-808-5100

The Toronto Police Service would like to make the public aware of two arrests following a shooting at 220 Oak Street.

It is alleged that:

- on Wednesday, February 6, 2013, at approximately 7 a.m., a 45-year-old man was shot in his home at 220 Oak Street

- two suspects fled the scene

- the man was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries

On Thursday, February 7, 2013, at approximately 4 a.m., members of 51 Division, with the assistance of the ETF, executed a search warrant at a home in the Adelaide Street East/Parliament Street area.

Melissa Rowe, 21, and Bento Sebastian, 23, both of Toronto, are each charged with:

1) Attempt murder
2) Aggravated assault
3) Discharge firearm endanger life
4) Unauthorized possession of a firearm
5) Possession of a firearm knowing its possession is unauthorized
6) Careless use of a firearm
7) Unauthorized presence of a firearm in a motor vehicle
8) Possession of a prohibited firearm with ammunition
9) Carry concealed weapon, prohibited device or prohibited ammunition

They are scheduled to appear in court at College Park, on Thursday, February 7, 2013, at 2 p.m.

A third person, Samuel Elvira, 19, of Toronto, was arrested for unrelated matters.

He is charged with:

1) Possession for the purpose - Cocaine
2) Possession for the purpose - Marijuana
3) Fail to comply with Probation
4) Careless storage ammunition

He is scheduled to appear in court at Old City Hall on Thursday, February 7, 2013, at 2 p.m.

Investigators would like to acknowledge Toronto Community Housing staff for their assistance with this investigation, as well as the role played by CCTV and social media.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-5100, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online atwww.222tips.com, text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637), or Leave A Tip on Facebook. Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.

Constable Victor Kwong, Corporate Communications, for Detective Lester Rosete, 51 Division

Source

City of Toronto issues Extreme Weather Alert and advises homeless people outside to seek shelter

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:
======================================

News Release:  February 7, 2013

City of Toronto issues Extreme Weather Alert and advises homeless people outside to seek shelter

The City of Toronto has called an Extreme Weather Alert to make vulnerable homeless people aware of the dangers of staying outside too long in cold and extreme weather and to ensure they have safe and warm places to go. The alert is in effect until further notice.

An Extreme Weather Alert is called to trigger additional homelessness services. Alerts are typically called in the morning for the coming overnight period so that community agencies have sufficient time to call in extra staff to provide enhanced services.

During an Extreme Weather Alert:
Shelters are directed to relax any existing service restrictions and are reminded that if a bed is not available at their site they are to allow the client to stay at the shelter until they are able to find a bed for them elsewhere in the system.

The City of Toronto immediately adds 172 shelter spaces to those available to staff looking to refer a client to a shelter bed.

Overnight street outreach is increased in the downtown core, focusing solely on warning people of danger and urging them to get into a shelter or another warm, indoor place. Workers will transport people to warm places if necessary.

TTC tokens are available at some drop-ins so people can use public transit to get to shelters.

More than 100 agencies are advised of the oncoming extreme weather and asked to relax any service restrictions they may have.

An alert is called when there is increased danger to homeless people from extreme cold weather or extreme winter weather conditions. It is usually called in the morning when Environment Canada:
o predicts a coming overnight temperature of -15 degrees Celsius or lower, without wind chill, o issues a wind chill warning for outdoor activity for people in the Toronto area, and/or predicts extreme weather conditions such as a blizzard, ice storm or sudden drops in temperature.

How to get an emergency shelter bed any day, any hour:

Call 311 or directly contact the City of Toronto's Central Intake line within the Greater Toronto Area toll-free at 1-877-338 3398, or go in person to the Streets to Homes Assessment and Referral Centre, located at 129 Peter St. (at Richmond Street).

The Streets to Homes Assessment and Referral Centre is always open and has 24-hour street respite for those who do not want a shelter bed, as well as walk-in access to shelter beds throughout the system. Housing workers are available Monday to Friday to assist street-involved people to find permanent housing.

If you see someone who you think requires street outreach assistance, call 311. It is not an emergency number. In an emergency, dial 911.

Toronto is Canada's largest city and sixth largest government, and home to a diverse population of about 2.7 million people. Toronto's government is dedicated to delivering customer service excellence, creating a transparent and accountable government, reducing the size and cost of government and building a transportation city. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can dial 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

More information is available at http://www.toronto.ca/housing.

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Media contact: Pat Anderson, Manager, Shelter, Support and Housing Administration, 416-397-4328, panders@toronto.ca

City of Toronto reminder about its snow-clearing service

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:

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News Release:  February 7, 2013

City of Toronto reminder about its snow-clearing service

With a sizable snowfall expected over the next 24 hours, the City of Toronto reminds residents and businesses about the levels of snow clearing the City provides.

Large snowfalls require a co-ordinated approach by the City’s staff and contractors to ensure that Toronto's streets and sidewalks are safe. The City’s general levels of service are described below for various amounts of snow accumulation.

As soon as the snow begins, Transportation Services sends out its fleet of salt trucks to the expressways and the main roads. After that, the salt trucks move on to the local roads.

If the city receives two centimetres of snow, the plows are sent to the expressways. If five centimetres of snow falls, plows also go to the main roads and plowing will take place for the duration of the storm. 

When the snow stops and if the snow accumulation reaches eight centimetres, plows will be sent to the local roads. Normally, local road plowing will be completed between 14 and 16 hours after the storm has ended.

The City will clear snow from sidewalks on local roads where it is mechanically possible to do so after eight centimetres (five centimetres in January and February) of snow has fallen.  In the central core of the city, property owners are required to clear their sidewalks of snow 12 hours after a storm has taken place. You can learn more about sidewalk snow clearing in Toronto and view a map of where the service takes place at http://www.toronto.ca/transportation/snow/sidewalks. 

The City of Toronto’s levels of service for snow clearing meet those set by the Province of Ontario for municipalities and road authorities. These levels of service were adopted by Toronto City Council in 2009. 

Residents who have questions about snow-clearing efforts in their area can call the City at 311.

The City has 600 snowplows, 300 sidewalk plows and 200 salt trucks ready to tackle the winter precipitation.

Toronto is Canada's largest city and sixth largest government, and home to a diverse population of about 2.7 million people. Toronto's government is dedicated to delivering customer service excellence, creating a transparent and accountable government, reducing the size and cost of government and building a transportation city. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can dial 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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Media contact: Steve Johnston, Senior Communications Coordinator, 416-392-4391, sjohnsto@toronto.ca