Safe Shop – Working Together for a Safe and Joyful Holiday Season

Released: December 4, 2024 at 9:45 a.m.

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As the holiday season approaches, the Winnipeg Police Service is committed to creating a safe and enjoyable environment for shoppers, retailers, and staff. Retail theft and related incidents have a significant impact on our community, and we’re taking proactive steps to address these challenges.

Increased police presence for peace of mind
Expect to see more officers in busy shopping areas throughout December. Using crime data, we are deploying uniformed officers and members of the Major Crimes Division to key retail locations to deter criminal activity, prevent theft, and respond quickly to incidents when necessary.

This enhanced presence underscores our dedication to community safety during this busy season.

Safety is a shared responsibility
Creating a safer community is something we can achieve together. Everyone – shoppers, retailers, and police – plays a role in reducing crime and fostering a secure environment. By working collaboratively, we can make a meaningful difference.

Here’s how you can help:

Shoppers: Stay Safe & Aware
Your awareness and actions can help discourage crimes of opportunity:

  • Stay Alert: Be mindful of your surroundings, whether you’re shopping or parking.
  • All Valuables Removed: Keep bags, packages, and electronics out of sight in your vehicle.
  • Shop Smart: Use well-lit areas, carry only what you need, and take care when handling cash or completing transactions.
  • Buy & Sell Exchange Zones: Use designated exchange zones at Winnipeg Police Service stations for secondary market transactions.

Further safety tips can be found on the Winnipeg Police Service website.

Retailers: Protect your team & customers
Retail staff are essential partners in creating safe spaces:

  • Put Safety First: Property can be replaced; prioritize personal and customer safety.
  • Stay Calm in Incidents: Keep a safe distance from anyone causing a disturbance.
  • Call 9-1-1 for Emergencies: When there’s a threat to life or safety, don’t hesitate to call.
  • Report Thefts: For non-emergency incidents, use online reporting. This helps us track crime trends and plan our police response accordingly.

Together, we can make a difference

The Winnipeg Police Service remains committed to ensuring a safe and successful holiday season. With a visible police presence and the support of our community, we can reduce crime and make this time of year enjoyable for everyone.

Let’s work together to create a secure and festive holiday season for all Winnipeggers.

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