SAFETY & SERVICES

@ a glance

- Support research and education to determine genuine vs. perceived lack of safety downtown.

- Improve safety situation for homeless individuals.

- Support harm-reduction services ­ establish long-term, stable, safe-injection site.

- Create integrated, municipal, natural-disaster and emergency preparation strategy with equal access to vital resources.

- Alleviate stress and danger in highly-crowded, loud, and/or drinking environments through better downtown transportation and intelligent urban planning.

Safety: More than a perception?

Safety is increasingly identified as a condition under threat in our city streets. Statistically, the raise in concern is uncalled for, although there are plenty of options for improving the sense of security that is vital for downtown to be an inviting and vibrant environment.

The Statistical Threat

Ironically, the victims contributing to a statistical decline in health and safety in our municipality are also the targets of a number of campaigns aimed at increasing security... Individuals struggling with homelessness, mental illness and drug addictions may be soldiers in the face of storms, disease and shelter shortages, but they aren't invincible against the incredible strain of unsupported living. Over the last two years, 11 homeless men and women have died in the streets of Victoria from illness, cold, alcohol poisoning and urban violence. Only two more died in Vancouver; a city with a notorious lack of housing and more than six times our population. Improving the health, safety and quality of living for the residents of our city streets through intelligently designed programs and facilities will reduce social friction downtown and boost pedestrian traffic, security and prosperity. Even if saving lives isn't a big enough incentive for some of our politicians, it is in everyone's interest to research and reform the common perceptions of hazards and victims and build creative new strategies for prevention, education and, of course, housing.

Harm-Reduction

Harm reduction does just what it says. Unfortunately, the inconvenience of providing 'street services' in retail areas has deterred our past attempts to be a leader in constructive programs for those struggling with drug addictions and other common problems. However, the application of a consistent, stable, and localized needle exchange, preferably with integrated health initiatives for other at-risk Victorians, is a vital piece of our social-restoration puzzle. With true, balanced consultation and collaboration, we can find solutions that fit the jigsaw.

Are You Prepared?

Victoria is indisputably vulnerable to cross-complex fires and near-hurricane winds. Much more significantly, our city is casually awaiting the attack of a catastrophic earthquake. Instead of taking this information for granted, as citizens we must use the information and services of the Victoria Emergency Management Agency and, as a city, we must work harder and faster to get these and other resources into the hands of all our citizens, including disadvantaged people in unstable environments that may face even more barriers to safety under the threat of a natural disaster. More on Emergency Preparedness.

Transportation: Key to a Safe Core

Having the thriving entertainment scene that it does, Victoria desperately needs a transportation strategy equal to the task. Late on Friday and weekend nights, there are many downtown environments with poor distribution of transportation services, including public busses and taxis. This is especially problematic during large celebration such as Canada Day, when crowded city spaces create and provoke the potential for violence and public disobedience. We need to give people the option of enjoying our exciting 'night-life' scene responsibly by providing consistent ways for them to explore the less-traversed areas of town and return home in safety.