About vCOP
The Volunteer Citizens on Patrol (vCOP) program was launched in 2006. vCOP volunteers patrol the city to observe and report any suspicious activities or problems. Similar programs have been established in communities throughout Canada and the United States.
Côte Saint-Luc is the first city in Quebec to implement the Volunteer Citizens on Patrol (vCOP) program, an innovative approach to community safety and security.
Working in collaboration with Côte Saint-Luc Public Security, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and the Montreal Police Department, vCOP members patrol the city, observing and reporting any suspicious activities or problems. VCOP members are not law enforcement personnel; instead, they act as the eyes and ears for our emergency services.
Visible on the streets and in parks, and at many special events throughout the year, the vCOP patrols help deter crime and assist people in need. They also assist residents and visitors by informing them about city services and municipal by-laws. VCOP members patrol in marked vehicles – numbered 901, 902 and 903 – as well as on bicycle and on foot.
Volunteer training
All members of the Côte Saint-Luc volunteer Citizens on Patrol program must complete the basic training which is divided into seven modules. The topics covered include:
- Observation and effective patrolling skills
- Incident response protocols
- Shift procedures
- Personal safety
- Municipal by-laws
- Crime prevention
- First aid, CPR and defibrillation
The training is provided by volunteers as well as local law enforcement, EMS and fire department representatives, where possible.
For more information about the program, contact the vCOP team at 514-485-6800 or vcop@cotesaintluc.org.
Sponsorship
vCOP sponsored by Cote Saint-Luc Car Wash and other generous members of the community
We are grateful to our valued corporate sponsors who have helped to make the program a reality. To find out how you may assist Côte Saint-Luc Volunteer Citizens on Patrol through sponsorship or donation please contact us at vcop@cotesaintluc.org.
How to join
VCOP is always looking for new members to join their team. Candidates must be at least 18 years old and reside, work or have a vested interest in Côte Saint-Luc. Since some patrol activities can be physically demanding, volunteers must be in good physical condition. They must pass a security check, have good interpersonal and communication skills, possess a positive attitude and be able to work in a team environment. In addition, they must adhere to the vCOP code of conduct and participate in training sessions.
Members are required to commit to a minimum of six hours of patrolling each month.
Note: There is a one-time membership fee of $75, which is used to defray the costs of uniforms and accessories. Your cheque, payable to the City of Côte Saint-Luc, must accompany the completed application form.
Contact
The City of Côte Saint-Luc is looking for more recruits to expand its successful Volunteer Citizens on Patrol program.
For more information about the program, contact the vCOP team at 514-485-6800 or vcop@cotesaintluc.org.