TBPS Crime Scene THUNDER BAY – Keeping safe in Thunder Bay begins with being aware, planning ahead, and being ready to report any suspicious or criminal behavior as it happens. On social media, people are posting images, videos, and stories about their experiences. Many are feeling less secure. This feeling is understandable given reports like the Woman Assaulted at Boulevard Lake, the man killed on Red River Road by someone with a hammer, and the recent death of a man in his home due to an attack. The police are working hard to make our city safer, but it’s also up to each of us as community members. No safety tips can completely remove risk, and responsibility for crime always lies with the person who commits it. However, residents, students, employees, and visitors can lower their risks by making safer choices when walking, driving, using transit, socializing or traveling around town.
When to Contact 911, Police or Crime Stoppers
Call 911 during emergencies like a crime in progress or if there’s an immediate threat to life or serious injury. The Thunder Bay Police Service indicates that priority emergency calls involve actual threats to life or serious harm including crimes happening where someone is in danger. The City of Thunder Bay also suggests that callers stay calm and provide clear details along with the exact location of the emergency. If you have non-emergency issues that require police assistance in Thunder Bay, call Thunder Bay Police Service at 807-684-1200. Some non-emergency incidents can also be reported online through the police service’s reporting system. According to Thunder Bay Police online reporting can be used for eligible cases such as thefts, vandalism, frauds, traffic violations and missing identification as long as these events happened within their jurisdiction. You can anonymously share tips with Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or via p3tips. com. While Crime Stoppers isn’t for emergencies, it’s valuable if you have information about a crime but want to remain anonymous.Avoiding Risks While Out in Town
Steer clear of shortcuts through dark or isolated areas that you’re not familiar with-especially late at night. Stick to main roads where there are lights and open businesses along with other people around. Avoid distractions while walking. Keep your phone handy but don’t focus on it when moving through parking lots or streets. If you’re using headphones keep one ear free so you can hear traffic and nearby voices or movement. Avoid confrontations whenever possible. If someone seems aggressive or drunk and is trying to provoke you just create some distance and head toward a safer public area. Don’t chase after suspects or get involved in fights alone. Don’t leave valuables visible inside your vehicle; lock doors securely and ensure windows are closed while removing wallets bags electronics tools and IDs from sight. Vehicle break-ins often happen because of opportunity. Avoid sharing your current location publicly on social media especially when you’re alone out late at night or away from home. Don’t accept rides from strangers you don’t trust. Before going out especially if you’ll be drinking plan how you’ll get home safely.Preparing Before You Head Out
Plan your route ahead along with how you’ll get back home afterward; let a trusted friend know where you’re headed and when they should expect you back. Make sure your phone’s charged before leaving-and think about bringing a portable charger if you’ll be out for several hours. Curb what you’re carrying down to only what’s necessary; keep ID keys payment cards separate from each other when possible for safety reasons. Select well-lit entrances parking lots sidewalks wherever possible-when returning have your keys ready before reaching your door step! If using ride services verify vehicle plate numbers driver details before getting inside; locally we have options like Uride plus public transport is available throughout city limits!Staying Safe on Transit Bus Stops & Parking Lots
At bus stops stay on sidewalks keeping away from curbs; Thunder Bay Transit recommends ensuring buses come fully stopped prior approaching them! In case of emergencies onboard operators can contact supervisors needing help from police fire paramedics while passengers seeking aid should reach out directly asking operators! Caution yourself by checking surroundings prior exiting entering vehicles located within parking lots-park near lights wherever feasible! If something feels off consider returning back into stores workplaces public buildings asking personnel for assistance! If ever feeling followed don’t return home instead head towards police stations fire stations open businesses hospitals anywhere public then request help!Safely Exchanging Goods Online
When buying selling online avoid meeting strangers secluded locations private homes poorly lit parking areas. The Thunder Bay Police Service has set up a Safe Trade Zone located at headquarters situated on Balmoral Street offering dedicated monitored spaces meant specifically person-to-person exchanges arranged through various online marketplaces. Whenever possible try scheduling meetings during daylight hours bring along another person do not carry excessive cash unless absolutely necessary trust instincts especially if last-minute changes occur regarding meeting locations.What To Do After Witnessing Experiencing A Crime
Prioritizing personal safety first call 911 immediately whenever facing danger witnessing ongoing crimes situations.Be attentive observant witnesses maintaining safe distances noting descriptions clothing travel directions vehicle colors license plates times places whether any weapons were seen do not endanger yourself gathering footage without proper precautions. Preserve vital evidence storing doorbell camera recordings dashcam videos text messages social media interactions receipts photos screenshots remembering never post sensitive information online until authorities had chance reviewing thoroughly! Report incidents regardless appearing minor small reports assist law enforcement identify patterns connect repeat offenders allocate patrols warn communities whenever needed.
The Importance Of Reporting Crimes In Thunder Bay
Failing report criminal activities makes community challenges harder recognize local authorities unable investigate unknown occurrences neighborhood-level trends may slip under radar due silence among residents businesses victims alike. Reporting helps safeguard others too-isolated instances might appear singularly concerning vehicles theft harassment threats attempts fraud violence however similar accounts across multiple individuals give investigators crucial timelines evidence enabling effective action!For victims filing reports often connects them access support documentation required insurance workplace matters even assists furthering personal security plans!
No Stigma In Community Safety
Public safety shouldn’t breed stereotypes against neighborhoods Indigenous peoples newcomers youths individuals facing homelessness addiction issues-the essence behind suspicious behavior ought be reported based actions threats verifiable proof rather than appearances poverty identities. Achieving greater levels safety within our beloved city depends upon practical preventative measures timely accurate reporting responsible witnesses engaged communities looking after one another effectively!Source link
