Business Watch Crime Prevention Program Launched

A new crime prevention program to help businesses in West Kelowna and the Westbank First Nation has been launched.

Business Watch is modeled after the Block Watch residential program, and has business owners and their employees serving as the eyes and ears in their community, watching for and reporting any suspicious activity to each other, and to RCMP when required.

“The Business Watch program is specifically designed for businesses within the City of West Kelowna and Westbank First Nation. Businesses that register have the opportunity to utilize our specialized crime prevention expertise at no cost. We offer security assessments, target hardening tips and ongoing access to information to help employees and customers continue to feel safe and secure,” said Crime Prevention coordinator Roy Morgan.

“It is important that we encourage our members to work with each other, as a team, in order to build a positive and economically stable community. The Business Watch program has been in the works for a long time and we are very thrilled to be partnering with the city, Westbank First Nation, the RCMP and the RDCO on this initiative,” said Greater Westside Board of Trade President Craig Garries.

RCMP Staff Sergeant Duncan Dixon added, “The West Kelowna RCMP is looking forward to the roll out of this valuable initiative that will provide an opportunity to improve community safety and to connect the Police to local business.”

“Business Watch encourages partnering businesses to communicate, cooperate and be involved in their community. This proactive involvement is integral to assist RCMP in its efforts to prevent and reduce criminal activity,” added Morgan.

Businesses interested in joining can get information at rdco.com/businesswatch