Newcomer Safety Videos
A police-community collaboration is providing tips to newcomers living in Toronto on how to stay safe.
“This proactive initiative, developed in close collaboration with our community partners, underscores our mutual dedication to sharing information and resources,” said CPEU Acting Superintendent Anthony Paoletta. “The videos are designed to provide timely and essential information to all newer Torontonians, demonstrating our commitment to well-being as individuals or families adjust to living in another city.”
The Community Partnerships & Engagement Unit (CPEU) collaborated with the Chinese Community Consultative Committee (CCCC) and Corporate Communications Unit Video Production section to produce a series of safety awareness videos catered to Chinese foreign students.
The videos are available at www.tps.ca/newcomer.
Superintendent Warren Wilson who co-chairs the Chinese Community Consultative Committee said the videos are an invitation to newcomers to become engaged and informed members of the Toronto community.
“Understanding local safety practices is a fundamental step in fostering a sense of belonging and community responsibility,” said Wilson. “Beyond immediate safety tips, these videos provide links to additional resources and support services available in Toronto, guiding newcomers toward further assistance and community integration.
“Equipping newcomers with the knowledge to protect themselves and navigate their new environment safely empowers them to live confidently and independently. The videos help introduce the newcomers and their families to the Canadian legal system and the Toronto Police Service. They also offer crucial insights into specific safety concerns and legal nuances, and this is invaluable for newcomers who might be unfamiliar with Canadian laws or how or when to call the police for assistance.”
Alex Yuan, who is the other CCCC Co-Chair, said it is important for newcomers to familiarize themselves with Canada’s federal, provincial and city by-laws.
“Whether you are a pedestrian, driver or cyclist, understanding the traffic laws that govern the roads is crucial for your safety,” he said. “Toronto is home to thousands of international students and the video provides essential safety tips, including an introduction to Toronto Police Service, when to call 9-1-1 and the non-emergency number 416-808-2222.”
Constable Ming Li, the Chinese CCC Liaison Officer, said the resources aim to help new Torontonians adapt to life in Canada by providing essential safety information, making them valuable for new residents and tourists.
Nearly 60,000 students from China reside in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area.
The safety videos were created in three languages – English, Cantonese and Mandarin.
Though created for foreign students, the topics are applicable to any newcomer.
