Whistle Blower Program

The Whistle Blower program was created by the Collingwood CPC, Skytrain, Translink, the Greater Vancouver Transit Authority Police Service & Vancouver Police Department for public transit commuters to increase personal awareness of their surroundings, especially for seniors or women walking alone at night or during the early morning hours.

*Whistles can be obtained free of charge at the Collingwood Community Policing Centre to wear around your neck for you to use incase of an emergency as you are walking to/from home. Remember, your whistle should only be used incase you or someone you witness is in danger.

If you hear a whistle blow:

• Look around immediately
• call 911 and report any suspicious people to the police

Here are some tips on how to stay safe:

• Look Aware – if you look like you’re not aware of what’s going on around you, your risk of attack increases.
• Look Around – Walk with a purpose. Keep your head up, look around and look directly at people you meet. Don’t stare, but assess them.
• Look Inside – Trust your feelings. If you feel something just isn’t right, it may not be.
• Look Alert – If you dig in your purse, wear headphones or dress in uncomfortable clothing, you’re less aware of your surrounding and less prepared.
• Look Ahead – If you are going to your car, have your keys ready. Keep them in your pocket, and pull them out with the correct key positioned to unlock the door before you get there.
• Put your Lips Together and Blow – Carry a whistle with you on your key ring, pinned to your clothing, on a bracelet. Don’t be afraid to use it.

If Someone Grabs You:

• Make a lot of noise! Take a deep breath, and blow the whistle.
• Yell at the top of your lungs “Call Police”, Call 911”, “Help”, “No and Stop”. Be loud and persistent.
• If there is anyone nearby, give them instructions to help you.
• Single out someone and send them for help. “You, in the red jacket, call 911”. This will encourage bystanders to get help when they may not know what action to take.
• Wear comfortable shoes such as runners
  If using a stairwell, be sure its well lit and that you can quickly exit to a safe place.
• Stay on well-lit streets, in the center of the sidewalk, away from bushes, doorways and parked cars – anywhere that an attacker could hide. Cross the road if necessary.
• If you think someone is following you, turn around and check. Let them know you are aware of their presence. Do not go to your car or house. Cross the street and go to a safe place, such as a store or restaurant.
• Remember your Skytrain Station is a safe haven. So long as the trains are in service, it’s open and well-lit. Use a payphone. Go to the platform and stay within the yellow square. Pick up a red emergency phone. If it’s “nothing”, you don’t have to feel embarrassed. We’d rather you be safe than sorry.