Residents in southern Saskatchewan now have better access to information regarding criminal activity in their area.

RCMP launched the Saskatchewan Crime Watch Advisory Network on Thursday, a program that will provide text messages, emails or phone calls to residents who sign up.

“When an RCMP detachment becomes aware of an incident or crime, they can issue an advisory via the system and local residents who have signed up for the program will become aware of what happened,” said Mark Fisher, Saskatchewan RCMP commanding officer and assistant commissioner.

“Equipped with this information, citizens will be in a better position to provide tips and information to their local RCMP.”

The Saskatchewan government has committed nearly $50,000 to launch the program.

“We know that people across our province want information to help keep their family and home safe,” Corrections and Policing Minister Christine Tell said.

“The Saskatchewan Crime Watch Advisory Network allows people to get reliable information right from the RCMP.”

The effectiveness of the program will be evaluated by RMCP before possibly expanding it province-wide.

“We want rural residents to feel safe in our communities,” Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM) president Ray Orb said.

“With the reinvigoration of Rural Crime Watch Associations in the province and the addition of the Provincial Response Team, this mass notification system adds to the basket of tools and peace of mind for our members.”

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