Police and community partners launch Project Safe Semester 2012

For Immediate Release: August 31, 2012

Waterloo Region, ON – The Waterloo Regional Police Service, in partnership with the University of Waterloo, Wilfrid Laurier University, City of Waterloo By-law Enforcement, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission and Waterloo Fire Rescue, is launching Project Safe Semester 2012.

This special initiative is conducted each year at this time to help promote safety and positive interaction in the community. Waterloo Regional Police and our community partners are committed to working with permanent residents and students alike to help build safe, strong neighbourhoods, using a multi-faceted approach.

Police resources will be dedicated to proactively resolving concerns and promoting public safety while taking a strict enforcement approach of municipal noise bylaws, the Criminal Code, and the Highway Traffic Act.  Additionally, police are enhancing Liquor Licence Act enforcement and inspection efforts through participation in the Community Alcohol Safety and Enforcement program, a co-ordinated province-wide initiative being conducted in partnership with the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police and the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario.

Project Safe Semester also helps to create an environment that reinforces community awareness, encourages communication among neighbours, and promotes mutual respect.  To assist in this process, teams of officers, community partners and student volunteers will be visiting over 1,500 homes in uptown Waterloo and the university district during the annual Door Knock Program September 10 from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. Team representatives will meet with residents to address matters of mutual interest and provide important information relating to safety and community resources available to new as well as permanent residents.

The Waterloo Regional Police Service will continue to take a leadership role helping to ensure the highest quality of life for all residents. Anyone wishing further information on Project Safe Semester is invited to contact 519-650-8500 extension 3311.

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Media Inquiries:
Inspector Kevin Thaler, Executive Officer
(519) 650-8500 ext. 8713

Olaf Heinzel, Public Affairs Coordinator
(519) 650-8500 ext. 8773