Citizens on Patrol Program

Citizens on Patrol is a grassroots, crime prevention program where volunteers work in cooperation with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) to reduce crime and improve safety in the community through deterrence and education.

Background of St. Clements COPP program

  • Established in south St. Clements in March 2004.Citizens on Patrol Program
  • The program has since expanded north to Highway 4 and a group is now active in Gull Lake.
  • Interested in having the COPP program in your area? Let us know!

Deterrence

  • COPP road signage is in the areas we patrol.
  • Our members go on regular patrols and are trained to observe and report any suspicious activity or safety concerns.

Education

  • We bring displays and have members available to answer questions at public events like the RM Open House and Fire Hall Open House.

Patrolling

  • Patrols are done in teams of two or more persons.
  • Members wear a reflective vest and patrol cars are identified with COPP signs.
  • Members are trained in observation skills through the provincial COPP program.
  • Patrol teams carry cell phones
  • The RCMP are notified at the beginning and end of each patrol.
  • During the patrol anything that is suspicious or any emergency that is observed is reported to the RCMP. Members do not get involved directly in any confrontation.
  • During a patrol, members also have the opportunity to talk with residents in their patrol area and learn of any concerns.
  • All safety issues such as missing road signage is reported to the RM, who responds and has the situation corrected.
  • Patrols last from two to three hours and are done at various times during the day or night.

RCMP Liason

  • Each COPP group in the province has an RCMP or police liaison officer who assists them with information and advice regarding our activities.
  • The liaison officer attends our meetings and also helps with training in observation skills.

Volunteer

If you are a residents of St. Clements, 18 years of age or older, and would like to consider volunteering for the RM of St. Clements COPP program, please contact:

Olga, COPP Coordinator

For Olga’s contact information or to volunteer for the COPP program please contact the RM at 204-482-3300 or by email at info@rmofstclements.com.