RCMP & Crime Prevention Programs

The RCMP Crime Map enables the RCMP to share up-to-date information on criminal incidents.  Neighbourhood crime isn’t just about numbers; it’s about knowing where crime is happening in our community. This new tool gives residents an opportunity to be an extra set of eyes and ears for the Whitecourt RCMP.

The Authorized General Enforcement for Nuisances and Trespassing (AGENT) Program is a new initiative with the Whitecourt RCMP and the Town's Municipal Enforcement Services.

Trespassing is a common issue faced by property owners, which can result in property damage, theft, and other unlawful activities. This program empowers the Whitecourt RCMP and the Town's Municipal Enforcement Officers to act on behalf of participating businesses to address trespassing, loitering, or other unlawful activities on private properties as per the Petty Trespass Act and Trespass to Premises Act. This enables timely interventions without the need for the business owner to be present during incidents.

Business participation is voluntary, and free of charge. Businesses that participate in the program will receive a free 'AGENT' window cling to place at the main entrance of their business, upon approval of their application. 

To apply for the AGENT Program, please fill out the application form here. Completed forms can be submitted to Kristen McLeod, Crime Prevention Liaison.

CPTED, which stands for Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design, is a multifaceted approach to deterring criminal activity by strategically designing and managing the built environment. It centers on the idea that the physical environment can be manipulated to influence human behaviour and reduce opportunities for crime. The core principles of CPTED include natural surveillance, natural access control, territoriality, and maintenance and management. 

CPTED Principles

Natural Surveillance: This principle focuses on maximizing visibility to increase the likelihood of observation and reduce the potential for criminal activity. It involves designing spaces with clear sightlines, ensuring that potential offenders are visible to others, and strategically lighting pathways and areas to enhance surveillance. 

Natural Access Control: This principle aims to guide and restrict movement through the use of physical design elements, creating clear boundaries and delineating public and private spaces. It involves controlling entry and exit points, defining pathways, and using landscaping to direct pedestrian flow. 

Territoriality: This principle focuses on fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility for a space, encouraging residents to take ownership of their surroundings and deter potential offenders. This can be achieved through the design of defensible spaces, clear demarcation of property lines, and landscaping that subtly defines boundaries. 

Maintenance and Management: This principle emphasizes the importance of maintaining the physical environment, demonstrating pride of ownership and discouraging criminal activity. Well-maintained spaces send a message that the area is cared for and actively observed, discouraging potential offenders. 

Applying CPTED Principles 

CPTED principles work by creating an environment that is less inviting to criminals and more conducive to natural surveillance, access control, and a sense of community ownership. 

For Homes:

• Install a security system or motion-sensor lighting
• Be mindful of neighbours and light pollution by ensuring lights are pointed to the necessary area for illumination only.
• Keep hedges and fences low enough for visibility but high enough to deter trespassers.
• Clearly mark house numbers to help emergency services respond quickly.

For Businesses:

• Use clear, visible signage for entrances and exits.
• Ensure the front counter or service area has a clear view of the entrance.
• Position security cameras to cover blind spots or vulnerable areas.