A new Block Watch Program has been started in Kimberley, in large part due to increased local crime, specifically the numerous reports of loosened lug nuts on vehicles.
The initiative was started by Jennifer Myrick Cvet, a resident of Kimberley for the past four years.
"I decided to gauge interest in forming a type of Block Watch program as a result of seeing the growing amount of concern, anxiety and other emotions that residents were experiencing due to the continuous lug nut tampering issues and other criminal activities.
"Understanding that RCMP resources can only be stretched so far, I believe it’s also up to residents to manage community safety. By working together with law enforcement, we plan to develop a safe program for those who are interested in getting involved."
Cvet added that to her, the idea of a Block Watch isn't solely about looking out for criminal activity, it is about keeping an eye out for one another's neighbours and keeping communication open, so people know they always have someone to reach out to when needed.
An initial meeting was held a month ago and drew a small number of attendees. Cvet said she hopes to see more residents at the next meeting, which is set for Monday, Oct. 7 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Kimberley BC Senior Association Hall, located in the lower portion of Centennial Hall.
She added that she's aware that there are other neighbourhoods in Kimberley with some sort of watch system in place and wondered if they'd perhaps be interested in attending the meeting and sharing their ideas and how their systems work.
Cvet said the local RCMP detachment is interested and will be at the next meeting to discuss what a current community Block Watch program looks like and answer any questions residents may have.
"Absolutely, I think it’s a great program for sure, any time that the community comes together and is willing to take responsibility for safety and help the RCMP, we love to see that," said Cpl. Dean Kletzel of the Kimberley RCMP detachment.
“It’s community based, so there will be captains of certain neighbourhoods who will probably have the most communication with the RCMP and then there’s going to be co-captains. Basically it is an information-sharing piece that the neighbourhood can use to better prevent crime.”
Learn more about the Block Watch program at blockwatch.com
