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Winnipeg neighbourhood watch group sends crime alerts via text message

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Winnipeg neighbourhood watch group sends crime alerts via text message
WATCH: Global's Sean Leslie speaks with the community watch group that launched a new mobile notification system – Aug 15, 2016

WINNIPEG — The North Kildonan Community Watch group has a new way to communicate potential crimes in the area while they’re happening.

The group launched a mobile notification system earlier this month.

“This allows us to get the information out to them immediately,” said Trevor Siwak, with the community watch organization.

The group gets tips on their Facebook page and through other channels. Those are then sent to their members through the system, arriving as text messages.

“Could be about crimes, could be about just suspicious circumstances or people, prowlers going through the area,” said Siwak.

Users of the system say they appreciate having alerts sent straight to their phone instead of having to check Facebook.

“It’s instant information, we’re more aware of what’s going on in our neighbourhood,” said Sara Lerner, a member of North Kildonan Community Watch.

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The alerts contain very specific details about where potential criminal activity is occurring, including streets and block numbers.

To sign up for the service you have to live in North Kildonan.

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