Q. What should I do about nuisance/harassing phone calls?
A. Do not give the caller the audience that they are seeking (don’t talk to them)
- Hang up the phone!
- Take your phone off the hook for a few minutes
- Make a log of the call (record date and time of the call)
- If calls persist, make a police report through the Call Management Branch. (Have your call log ready when you make the report)
- Refer to your Bell Telephone Directory for Bell Smart Touch services to help (Call Trace/Call Screen).
Q. What response should I expect?
A. If the crime is in progress, e.g. the burglar is still in your home, there will be an immediate and swift response from your local patrol officer. If the crime has already been committed, e.g. you have come home and found that your home has been burglarized, a slower response should be expected.
- Crimes in progress receive first priority!
- All other calls for service will be answered on a lower priority basis.
Q. What is the suggested method of reporting a crime or suspicious activity?
A. Call the police
- It is wise to have the number readily accessible in case of emergencies.
- Identify yourself by your name and address then relay the information.
Example: I am Jane Smith of 16 Rose Street, a member of NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH. There is a suspicious person prowling around the home of my neighbour at 14 Rose Street.
- Give the exact location of the crime or activity.
- Remain in contact with the Police Dispatcher until they have obtained all the information they require.
- Do not personally confront the situation. Await the arrival of the Police.
When reporting an incident to the Police you may be asked to repeat the address. This is to ensure that the address has been correctly understood. At the same time as you are relaying the information, a car is already being dispatched to the scene of the emergency.
NOTE: All information can be kept confidential!