Crime, fire stats reveal 'mixed picture' of public safety downtown

A recent report from the city’s Standing Committee on Public Safety highlights trends in fire and law enforcement responses in Prince George, focusing on common file types generated by the fire service, bylaw officers and the Prince George RCMP.

The report, to be presented to council Monday, Oct. 7 by administrative services director Eric Depenau, is described as being part of an ongoing effort by the city to refine the city’s communication tools regarding social health issues. It’s based on the standing committee’s Oct. 1 meeting.

In a note accompanying the report, the committee states that most recent information regarding the Lower Patricia Boulevard Encampment, or Moccasin Flats, is that roughly 12 people are occupying the site, down from 20 mentioned at one point in the report.

“It is important to recognize that occupancy is fluid on this site,” the message states.

• Fire and rescue statistics: Data from 2023 indicates that Prince George Fire Rescue responded to a total of 9,863 calls, with medical emergencies making up approximately 62 per cent of these incidents. In the downtown area alone, including Moccasin Flats, firefighters dealt with 173 burning complaints, 21 fires and 152 medical aid calls between January and April 2024. City-wide, there were 349 burning complaints and 843 medical aid calls in the same period.
• RCMP crime trends: The report also details crime statistics from the RCMP, revealing a mixed picture of safety in the downtown region. Over the past few years, the crime severity index has fluctuated, with 2023 showing a slight decrease in the overall crime rate. Key offences noted include disturbances, mischief, and calls for well-being checks, with a total of 1,339 cases in 2023, which the report calls a notable rise from previous years. Between 2020 and 2023, the total number of RCMP files in Prince George decreased by one per cent, from 44,881 in 2022 to 44,000 in 2023. In the downtown area, however, files increased by 11 per cent over the same period, rising to 8,397.
• Social health initiatives: The report also outlines ongoing social health initiatives, including the tenanting process for the Victoria Street Supportive Housing facility, which is currently accommodating 20 individuals. The city operates 151 shelter beds, with six reserved to support ongoing housing efforts. A transitional facility is scheduled to open in fall 2024, providing 24/7 staffing and various support services, including health care referrals and life skills training.

The report encourages committee members to provide feedback on the depth of detail and organization of the presented data, which aims to improve communication with both council and the public.

The findings will be discussed further in the Standing Committee on Public Safety meeting scheduled for Sept. 24.