Is Ottawa a safe city?

Ottawa is Canada’s capital and one of the safest cities in North America. With a large police presence and a security team in place, Ottawa has a number of initiatives in place to keep its residents safe. In this guide, we’ll look at the security measures implemented in Ottawa and provide an understanding of what makes it such a safe city.

Crime Statistics

The best way to determine how safe a city is, is to review its crime statistics. The crime rate in Ottawa is lower than the national Canadian average, with the major indices such as homicide and robbery showing that Ottawa is a relatively safe city. In 2017, Ottawa’s Crime Severity Index was 75, compared to the national Canadian Crime Severity Index of 87. Similarly, the Violence severity index in Ottawa was lower than the national average in 2017, at 50 compared to the national average of 70. However, these numbers have been steadily increasing since 2011 when the indices were at 58 and 30 respectively. While the crime rate in Ottawa is lower than the national average, it is important to keep an eye out for any rise in crime statistics. As a resident of Ottawa, it is important to stay aware of your surroundings and be mindful of potential risks.

Police Presence

The Ottawa Police Department boasts 850 officers and police staff and 300 civilians dedicated to keeping Ottawa a safe city for its residents. Based on the crime statistics outlined above, it is clear that this police force is effective in deterring crime and maintaining low levels of criminal activity. The police department also cultivates relationships with community stakeholders within the city by conducting initiatives such as community meetings and offering volunteer opportunities. This helps to ensure that Ottawa remains a safe city where residents feel secure and can live and work without fear of crime or violence.

Security Teams and Networked City Cameras

The security team working in conjunction with the police department, is responsible for conducting regular checks around the city to ensure that emissions rules are followed, residential units remain secure, and all laws specified by the Police Services Act are followed. A mobile report system is also implemented, which allows residents to report suspicious behaviour or incidents anywhere in the city. The security team is also responsible for setting up networked city cameras equipped with software that can recognize faces, detect unusual activity and warn potential criminals off from areas.

Parking Enforcement

In addition to the multi-pronged security measures put in place by the police department and systemic cameras, another tool that helps keep Ottawa secure is its parking enforcement officers. The parking enforcement team is responsible for ensuring that parking laws are followed in all residential and commercial areas. This ensures that visitors and residents alike are not risking their safety due to careless parking around the city.

Conclusion

Overall, it is clear that several initiatives have been put in place by the police department, security teams and parking enforcement officers to ensure that Ottawa remains one of the safest cities in North America. However, it is important to remain vigilant and aware of one’s surroundings when visiting or living in Ottawa. By doing so, one will be able to maximize safety and enjoy living or visiting this wonderful city. For more information on safety-related initiatives in Ottawa, you can visit the Ottawa Police website.

Insider’s Guide to Ottawa: A Safe and Vibrant City

Ottawa is the capital city of Canada, located in the eastern part of Ontario. It is commonly known as home to the Canadian government and royalty, with a wide range of museums, landmarks, and activities that cater to tourists from all over the world. But is Ottawa a safe city? The answer is yes. According to a recent survey, Ottawa ranks as one of the safest cities in Canada and the world. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take you through some of the top attractions, restaurants, cultural experiences, along with a bit of local history and some off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Top Attractions

When in Ottawa, there is no shortage of things to take in and places to visit. Below are some of the top attractions that you should not miss out on:

– Parliament Hill: It is the seat of the Canadian government and an iconic landmark, situated high above the Ottawa River. A must-visit, especially if there is a schedule to witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony held from late June to late August.

– National Gallery of Canada: The museum boasts a vast collection of Canadian and international art pieces, including works by Tom Thomson, the Group of Seven, and Andy Warhol, among others.

– Canadian Museum of History: It is located across the river in Gatineau, Quebec, and has a permanent collection that highlights Canada’s rich history. Additionally, the museum features a children’s gallery, restaurants, and gift shops.

– Rideau Canal: The canal system is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and serves as one of the city’s most picturesque landmarks. In winter, visitors can enjoy skating on the canal, while in summer, it is an excellent spot for boat tours.

Dining Spots

Ottawa doesn’t disappoint when it comes to food, with a varied range of restaurants and cafes that cater to different tastes. Below are some of the top dining spots to consider when in town:

– Riviera: An upscale French-Canadian bistro located in an old bank building in the city’s downtown area.

– El Camino: A trendy spot for Mexican cuisine, featuring inventive cocktails, small plates, and sharing options.

– The Wellington Gastropub: A casual spot offering craft beer and a menu that ranges from comfort food to fine dining options.

– The Fish Market: A local institution that has been around for over 40 years, featuring a menu of fresh seafood and a lively patio.

Cultural Experiences

Apart from the top attractions, Ottawa has a rich culture that is worth exploring. Below are some of the cultural experiences that you should consider:

– The National Arts Centre (NAC): An iconic arts venue that features live music, dance, and theatre productions.

– Byward Market: A bustling outdoor market that offers a wide range of artisanal crafts, food, and produce from local vendors.

– Canadian War Museum: The museum tells the story of Canada’s military history and showcases artifacts from various wars.

Local History

Ottawa has a rich history, spanning over 150 years. Below are some of the city’s historical sites that you should visit:

– Rideau Hall: The official residence of the Governor-General of Canada and boasts an extensive collection of Canadian art.

– The National War Memorial: A landmark located in the heart of the city that honors Canadians who served in various wars.

– The Diefenbunker: A Cold War-era bunker that now serves as a museum and provides visitors with an insight into Canada’s military history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Lastly, Ottawa has a few off-the-beaten-path suggestions that are worth exploring. Check out:

– Andrew Haydon Park: A quiet and serene park located in the West End of the city, offering stunning views of the Ottawa River and excellent picnic spots.

– Wakefield, Quebec: A lovely little town located a short drive from the city, featuring quaint shops, a picturesque covered bridge, and stunning views of the Gatineau Hills.

– House of Targ: A retro arcade with pinball machines and classic video games. The spot offers delicious pierogies, live music, and a unique bar atmosphere.

In conclusion, Ottawa is a safe and vibrant city that has something for every tourist. With its top attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions, you are guaranteed to have an enjoyable stay.