Volunteers for ICBC have been improving public safety and reducing crime in Prince George. The provincial insurance corporation told The Citizen that approximately 30 local people have volunteered their time on some projects that have made life better in B.C.'s northern capital.
"These volunteers care passionately about the safety of their neighbourhoods," said Diana Pozer, local ICBC road safety co-ordinator. "They work tirelessly to help make Prince George roads safer for everyone. Their dedication is remarkable and truly appreciated. On behalf of all our customers and everyone at ICBC, thank you. You are truly making a difference."
One of the ICBC programs championed by volunteers was the Lock Out Auto Crime initiative. Volunteers in Prince George handed out more than 290 notices last year resembling parking tickets onto the windshields of vehicles, many with valuables in sight, offering common sense tips to the owners to protect them from becoming the victim of auto crime.
Another initiative of note was the Stolen Auto Recovery Program in Prince George. In 2011, volunteers scanned more than 15,800 license plates looking for stolen vehicles. The fact they found none was a positive sign, according to ICBC spokeswoman Michelle Hargrave.
"Being those extra eyes and ears and performing that service helps to bring down the auto crime numbers, along with the BAIT Car Program, police enforcement, and public education," she told The Citizen. "Each year, volunteers help recover hundreds of stolen vehicles in B.C. With their support, in Prince George, we've seen an astounding 65 per cent decrease in vehicle thefts and 86 per cent decrease in vehicle break-ins since 2003."
Prince George volunteers also gave 15 hours to the Speed Reader program, showing drivers how fast they are travelling in specific locations.
Across northern B.C., said ICBC's statistics, more than 130 people did volunteer work for road safety, adding up to 2,200 hours. ICBC, along with Minister of Justice Shirley Bond, wished to thank them now in recognition of National Volunteer Week (April 15 to 21).
