Social Issues
In 2011 the Kamloops Chamber of Commerce launched the Social Issues Committee in hopes of looking for a business based approach to reducing crime, homelessness, poverty and improve public safety in Kamloops.
As part of this program the committee partnered with the Kamloops RCMP to introduce RCMP Alerts to the members.
Click here to view the latest RCMP alert.
The overall vision of the group is to engage and represent our members by partnering with community organizations, in order to provide business based options that support a safer and more vibrant community.
For more information on how you can get involved contact the Kamloops Chamber offices:
250.372.7722
February | Safely Walking to and from Work
 |
Lisa White Staff and Committee Member, Social Issues Committee |
In an effort to keep you educated and informed, our Social Issues Committee has brainstormed some tips to keep you safe when travelling to and from work.
- Walk with a friend. Park near someone you work with and arrange to walk to and from your vehicles together.
- Stick to busy streets. Avoid walking down back alleys. On busier streets, if anything were to happen, you will have more opportunities to attract attention and possibly help.
- Have your keys ready. Keys can make for a good weapon if ever required plus, you won’t have to dig in your purse or bag to find them.
- Dress appropriately. For women, instead of walking to work in heels, opt for flats or even running shoes. On darker evenings, it may also be smart to carry or wear something reflective so you’re seen by oncoming cars.
- Avoid listening to music or talking on your phone. Most phones are programmed to dial 911 in an emergency, but if not, we recommend that you program your phone yourself. Be aware of your surroundings! Talking on your phone or listening to music will distract you from what’s happening around you.
- Walk with confidence. Look forward and make eye contact with those you are passing. Attackers tend to look for people who appear vulnerable or nervous.
- Carry a noisemaker. From a noisemaker you get on New Years to a whistle or personal alarm that makes a heck of a noise, keep a noisemaker handy.
- Be prepared for the worst case scenario. It’s important to know what to do in a worst case scenario. If you are being followed, or you see or sense something that isn’t quite right, trust your instincts and make a plan. Walk into a business and let the staff know you are uncomfortable. Head towards a busy street or crowd. Look for someone who can help you. It’s also a good idea to take a Self-Defense class. Maybe plan to take one with your friends or co-workers for added confidence.
The best defense against an attack is awareness and action. If you are faced with an uncomfortable or dangerous situation and you can escape, do so immediately. Only you can determine what you can or will do when faced with an attacker.