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Screaming when you are being mugged or being assaulted by criminal sounds just really awful and nonsense to me. When Cst. Jarvie mentioned this, everyone started laughing, but in the real world, it can be helpful in preventing crime, as you will alert everyone to call for help. But the best thing to do before one gets out of the house is carry as less money as possible, because if you do carry a big amount of cash, this would most likely attract robbers and criminals. Fanny Pack is also a very effective way of carrying your valuables, because a purse can easily be snatched out of your arms. If you are carrying a pack that you can tie around your waist, it is very convenient for you, but frustrating for criminals.

Calling 911 is a very serious matter, so everyone should take a few seconds to identify if you are in a real emergency, or a non-emergency. Lines are to be kept as open as possible for actual emergencies. An interesting fact is that when you call 911 using a landline phone number, they will automatically know your location and the phone number you are using. If you are in an emergency and you are unable to speak, help will still be on the way. However, if you are using your cell phone, it is very critical that you provide your exact location to the operator so the operator knows where to send help.

Having a reliable and secure alarm system at home is very crucial in preventing crime. At least grade 2 locks are recommended, and a peep hole is very important too! If you do not know the person knocking on the door, it is best to keep it closed while having the conversation with them. A closed door and noice, such as voices - from inside the house is the best way to scare the intruder off. Another very good tip is that when leaving the house; do not leave an extra key hidden outside of the house. A criminal is very good in locating these things, especially if they have been observing you for a long time. Leaving your porch lights or radio on is also a very effective way of scaring off intruders. Let them know that someone is in the house. Most criminals prefer to break into homes when the residents are away from home.

Another interesting fact that I have acquired is that there are many frauds happening over the phone, and a very effective way of dealing with it is to hang up. I have always found it rude to hang up on these telemarketers, but it is just not worth it. Calling someone for verification is also a very effective way of dealing with these people, and taking extra time to confirm is better than your money being stolen.

I have learned quite a lot during the session, especially on crime rates, crimes, and how to prevent them and about Cst. Jarvie's encounters with criminals. He talked about how criminals, especially drug related criminals do anything in their power to deal or buy drugs. It is one of the highest causes of crime in Vancouver, which has a reputation for a good drug industry. However, over the past years, Vancouver Police has been actively trying to bust these criminals and has been quite successful, lowering drug related activities in the past year.

Reported by David D