Wondering what your teen is getting up to online? The Burnaby RCMP is hosting a free workshop on teenagers’ online activities next month, part of the detachment's safe community series.
For the past two years, Burnaby RCMP has been hosting a series of public safety seminar to inform people on ways of preventing and identifying crime in their neighbourhoods and at home, and all have proven to be very popular with residents.
"It's a series of free seminars and workshops held in community centres, libraries and other public spaces throughout the city of Burnaby," Burnaby RCMP Staff Sgt. Maj. John Buis told the NOW. "It's open to anyone who wishes to attend."
On average, about 40 to 65 people turn out for the almost-monthly events, which are organized and hosted by the Burnaby RCMP's crime prevention unit. The safe community series covers a number of topics on a regular basis, including how to spot a drug house, apartment security, online safety and negative impacts of graffiti.
"Topics are selected according to either current detachment ComStat crime trends or from community requests," Buis added.
Organizers also often invite representatives from different groups to speak at the events, including ICBC, Canada Post, Bank of Canada and officers from the Burnaby RCMP's various crime units.
Because the events are held in a variety of community spaces, seating is usually limited and those interested are asked to RSVP. Some of the more popular seminars can fill up fast, such as those on senior safety and scams, Buis said.
There are about 10 seminars per year, he added.
The topic for the next event is, "When they're in love and you're worried."
The one-and-a-half hour forum will cover strategies for understanding teens' online activities, concerns about sexting and the legal consequences, and warning signs of dating violence. There will also be an anonymous question-and-answer period with a police officer.
Anyone interested in attending the May 5 event at the Tommy Douglas library, 7311 Kingsway, is asked to RSVP either by calling 604-294-7859 or sending an email to [email protected].
