The City of Cote Saint-Luc is looking for new recruits for its unique and active volunteer Citizens on Patrol (vCOP) program.
An information session will be held on Tuesday, October 17, 2023, at 7:00PM at City Hall, 5801 Cavendish Blvd. Registration is required. Visit https://cotesaintluc.org/services/public-safety/vcop/how-to-join/ to register for the information session or download the application form.
The program trains volunteers to patrol the streets of Côte Saint-Luc in marked vans as well as on electric scooters, on bicycles and on foot. The volunteers notify local agencies about emergency and non-emergency situations.
“vCOP members serve as skilled observers throughout the community,” said Mayor Mitchell Brownstein. “Volunteer patrollers also help out at community events, deliver books to shut-ins and check on residential properties while homeowners are on vacation. They also assist Public Safety at major incidents (such as water main breaks, major fires, power outages, severe weather events and downed wires) to help secure perimeters.”
“Cote Saint-Luc was the first city in Quebec to implement this neighbourhood-watch-on-wheels program in 2006,” added vCOP Chairman, Glenn J. Nashen. “Similar programs have been established in communities throughout Canada and the United States, but Cote Saint-Luc vCOP is unique in our region and across Quebec. We have been leaders in all matters of safety for a very long time.”
Prospective volunteers do not have to be Cote Saint-Luc residents, however they must be aged 18 or older. Many are retirees who patrol on three hour shifts every week or two. Trainees will learn about first aid and bleeding control, Cardio-pulmonary resuscitation and the use of Automated External Defibrillators, fire extinguishers, two-way radios and in patrol and surveillance techniques.
The City Councillor responsible for vCOP is Steven Erdelyi. vCOP is part of the Public Safety Department which includes Public Security and the Dispatch Centre.
Volunteer supervisors are Susie Schwartz, Elaine Meunier, Mitchell Herf and Jeff Smith.
For more information visit CoteSaintLuc.org/vcop, call 514-485-6800 #5106, or send an e-mail to [email protected].
Additional Quotations
“vCOP volunteers work alongside public security, police, fire and EMS services to add to Côte Saint-Luc’s substantial safety initiatives. Our program is an extraordinary way for citizens to give back to their community. We provide training and support to our members and they will gain new, unique experiences and wonderful camaraderie.” – Glenn J. Nashen, Chairman
“Our vCOP patrollers help to increase safety in our city. We can always rely on vCOP to help out at events or emergency situations. We are so fortunate to have this amazing resource in Côte Saint-Luc.” – Councillor Steven Erdelyi, the council member responsible for vCOP