By 1075 Beach Radio News/ Pete McIntyre

Vernon introducing ‘safe places’ for community members

Oct 12, 2018 | 12:17 PM

VERNON — The Safe Place Program is being introduced in the North Okanagan.

RCMP are leading the initiative that started in Seattle, and has been running in Vancouver for a couple years.

Vernon North Okanagan RCMP spokesperson, Const. Kelly Brett, says the program works in partnership with businesses, schools and other institutions.

“What it is, is a safe place where people can go, and identify the place by a specific shield… that will be placed on a door or window. It’s a multi-coloured shield that says ‘RCMP in BC Safe Place,’” Brett tells Beach Radio News.

Brett says the locations will be a safe place to go for the members of the LGBTQ2S+ community, victims of crime, harassment and bullying.

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“So if someone is feeling unsafe, harassed or bullied within the community, and they see these partners that have these shields in their business, they can pop in and advise them to call police if they’re feeling hurt, threatened or unsafe in any way.”

Interested participants can contact the City of Vernon Community Safety Unit at (250) 550-7840.

To register, participants are asked to sign an agreement they will provide a safe place for anyone of the LGBTQ2S+ community, then post the rainbow decal.

“There is no question that everyone has the right to feel safe in their community,” says Brett. “The Vernon North Okanagan RCMP is committed to promoting acceptance and inclusion within our community through the Safe Place program.”