THE job of crime prevention does not live with the police alone; residents can play an important role in improving the safety of their neighbourhood. Surrey RCMP has launched a Neighbourhood Safety Campaign to provide residents greater access to the information they need to mobilize their community and enhance safety in their neighbourhood.

Starting this month, the Surrey RCMP will host the first in a series of “Engagement Presentations” designed to address crime concerns in specific neighbourhoods. The presentations, made by subject matter experts from the Surrey RCMP, will include information on crime trends, policing initiatives, reporting crime and crime prevention information specific to that area.

As Community Services Officer Inspector Ghalib Bhayani explains, “It’s important for police to connect with residents at the local level. I believe the vast majority of residents want to work with police to improve the livability of their neighbourhood. To do this, they need information on what is happening in their area and they need to know the practical and proactive steps they can take to create change.”

The first Engagement Presentation will take place in the Sullivan neighbourhood on January 19. Through crime analysis, property crime, mail theft and auto theft were identified as areas of concern in this growing community. As a result, Cpl. Mike Spencer will offer insight from his 10 years with the Surrey RCMP Auto Crime Target Team. The Officer-in-Charge of Surrey Detachment, Chief Superintendent Bill Fordy, will also speak with residents.

The Neighbourhood Safety Campaign will continue with Engagement Presentations around the city. The following presentations have been scheduled:

* Sullivan – January 19 at Cambridge Elementary School at 6:30 p.m.

* Clayton – February 5 (location to be announced)

* Morgan Crossing – February 12th (location to be announced)

* Whalley – February 24 (location to be announced)

* Fleetwood – March 4 (location to be announced)

Invitations will be mailed out to residents in those neighbourhoods and registration is available on the Surrey RCMP website.

Surrey residents who would like further information on the Neighbourhood Safety Campaign or upcoming Engagement Presentations can visit the Surrey RCMP website at www.surrey.rcmp.ca (click “Neighbourhood Safety Campaign” under “Policing Highlights”) or contact the Crime Prevention Coordinator at their local RCMP District Office.