Hamilton Police Service provides a range of crime prevention resources to help residents and businesses keep themselves, their families, and their property safe and secure.
We encourage you to explore the resources available to learn more about safety and crime prevention in your community.
Hamilton Police Service provides crime prevention information and security resources to help businesses protect employees, customers, property, and assets.
Simple preventative measures can help reduce opportunities for crime and improve safety in and around your business.
Counterfeiting includes fake bank notes, forged cards, and false identification documents.
Use the TILL method to identify counterfeit bills:
- Touch – Genuine bills have a unique texture and raised ink
- Inspect – Look carefully at security features and printing quality
- Look – Hold the bill to the light to check security features
- Lift/Tilt – Watch for colour-changing features and holograms
Train employees to recognize counterfeit money and report suspicious currency.
To report counterfeit money, call the non-emergency line at 905-546-4925.
CPTED uses property design and visibility to help reduce crime opportunities. Key principles include:
Natural Surveillance
- Improve visibility around entrances, exits, parking lots, and walkways
- Remove hiding spots and trim overgrown landscaping
Access Control
- Limit unauthorized access to buildings and restricted areas
- Use fencing, lighting, locks, and monitored entry points
Property Maintenance
- Keep the property clean, well-maintained, and well-lit
- Address graffiti, damage, or vandalism quickly
Hamilton Police Service offers free residential and business security audits.
Call 905-540-6088 or email cptedaudits@hamiltonpolice.ca to book your audit.
- Install and maintain quality video surveillance systems
- Ensure entrances and parking areas are well lit
- Increase visibility from the street and inside the business
- Keep valuables and cash secure
- Remove potential “weapons of opportunity” from exterior areas
- Ensure customers and visitors are visible to staff upon entry
Consider using cloud-based surveillance systems with remote access and high-definition recording capabilities.
Businesses should regularly review cybersecurity practices to protect customer and financial information from online threats.
Businesses that handle cash, operate late hours, or sell high-value merchandise may be at greater risk for robbery.
Prevention Tips
- Train staff on robbery prevention procedures
- Limit the amount of cash kept on site
- Use visible surveillance systems and signage
- Maintain clear sightlines throughout the store
- Build partnerships with neighbouring businesses and police
During a Robbery
- Stay calm and comply with demands
- Avoid sudden movements
- Observe details such as appearance, clothing, weapons, and direction of travel
- Call police when safe to do so
Employees should never put their personal safety at risk.
Reducing opportunities for theft is one of the most effective prevention strategies.
Prevention Tips
- Keep windows and entrances clear for visibility
- Place high-value merchandise in secure display areas
- Use low shelving to improve sightlines
- Increase staffing during busy periods
- Greet customers and maintain employee presence on the sales floor
Many businesses now use electronic article surveillance (EAS), security tags, and monitored self-checkout systems to help reduce retail theft.
Employees should never chase or physically confront a suspect.
Staff training is an important part of business security.
Employees should:
- Watch for suspicious behaviour
- Know emergency procedures
- Report safety concerns promptly
- Be familiar with robbery and theft prevention practices
Good customer service and visible employee engagement can help deter criminal activity.
Buying or selling items online? To help reduce the risk of theft or fraud, consider using the Hamilton Police Service Buy and Sell Exchange Zone to complete your transaction safely.
The designated, clearly marked area is in the visitor parking lot at:
Hamilton Police Mountain Station
400 Rymal Road East
Hamilton, ON
This space is monitored by video and is intended to provide added peace of mind when meeting to buy, sell, or trade items.
- Complete transactions during daylight hours
- Bring a friend or let someone know who you are meeting, when, and where
- Avoid transactions by mail to reduce the risk of fraud
- Inspect items before exchanging money
- Limit the personal information you share
- Trust your instincts—if something seems too good to be true, it likely is
- Police officers do not mediate private transactions, verify items, or witness exchanges
- The area is under video surveillance
If a criminal incident occurs during a transaction, contact Hamilton Police or attend a police station.
Hamilton Police Service provides safety information, resources, and programs to help children and teens stay safe at home, at school, online, and in the community.
Bullying is repeated behaviour intended to hurt, intimidate, or exclude another person. It can happen in person or online.
Types of bullying include:
- Cyberbullying
- Physical bullying
- Verbal bullying
- Social bullying
- Racial or religious bullying
- Sexual bullying
- Disability-related bullying
When to Call Police
Contact police if bullying involves:
- Threats
- Harassment
- Assault
- Theft
- Damage to property
In an emergency, call 9-1-1.
For non-emergencies, call 905-546-4925.
Signs a Child or Teen May Need Support
- Avoiding devices or social media
- Changes in mood or behaviour
- Fear of going to school
- Withdrawal from friends or family
- Declining school performance
- Physical complaints such as headaches or stomach aches
Encourage children and teens to talk to a trusted adult and save evidence of online messages or incidents when appropriate.
Drug use can affect judgment, behaviour, relationships, and overall health.
Possible warning signs may include:
- Sudden behaviour changes
- Secrecy or withdrawal
- Bloodshot eyes
- Difficulty concentrating
- Declining relationships or school performance
These signs do not necessarily mean someone is using drugs but may indicate a need for support.
Resources
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH)
YMCA Youth Substance Abuse Program
Ontario Drug and Alcohol Helpline +1(866) 531-2600
Help children and teens stay safe online by:
- Avoiding sharing personal information
- Using privacy settings and parental controls
- Keeping communication open about internet use
- Supervising webcam and social media use
- Keeping devices in shared family spaces
- Never meeting someone in person they only know online
Learn more at protectkidsonline.ca.
Human trafficking occurs in communities across Canada and often targets vulnerable youth.
It involves recruiting or controlling individuals for sexual exploitation or forced labour. Youth between the ages of 13 and 21 are particularly at risk.
Learn more about human trafficking.
The Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA) applies to youth aged 12 to 17.
Young people who break the law may face consequences such as:
- Warnings or community measures
- Probation or fines
- Restitution
- Court appearances
- Custody or supervision orders
Common offences include theft, assault, harassment, mischief, trespassing, threats, and drug possession.
Learn more about the YCJA.
- Know safe routes to and from school
- Walk with friends when possible
- Know how to contact a trusted adult
- Avoid displaying personal information on belongings
- Learn about your school’s safety policies
- Report concerns to a trusted adult, Crime Stoppers, or police
Hamilton Police Service Police Liaison Team (PLT) works with individuals, groups and communities before and during demonstrations, rallies, vigils, labour disputes and other public events.
PLT members help open lines of communication, answer questions and support the safe and peaceful exercise of Charter-protected rights and freedoms.
If you are organizing or planning to attend an event, PLT can provide information about the role of police, local requirements and considerations for keeping the event peaceful and lawful.
For more information, contact plt@hamiltonpolice.on.ca.
Understanding the risks associated with drugs and substance use helps individuals and families make informed decisions and reduce harm.
Hamilton Police encourages open, conversations about substance use and seeking support without judgment. Learn more at the following resources:
Cannabis is legal in Canada, but there are rules about who can buy, possess, use, and grow it. Hamilton Police continues to support safe communities by enforcing cannabis-related laws, including impaired driving laws.
Cannabis Laws in Ontario
- You must be 19 or older to buy, use, possess, or grow recreational cannabis
- Adults may possess up to 30 grams of dried cannabis in public
- Up to four cannabis plants per residence may be grown for personal use
- Cannabis must be purchased through legal retailers
Where Cannabis Cannot Be Used
Cannabis cannot be smoked or vaped in many public places, including:
- Schools, playgrounds, and childcare areas
- Hospitals and care facilities
- Restaurants, patios, and recreation areas
- Workplaces and indoor common areas
- Vehicles and boats
Additional restrictions may apply through municipal bylaws or property policies.
Cannabis and Driving
Driving while impaired by cannabis is illegal and dangerous. Cannabis can slow reaction time and increase the risk of a collision.
Penalties may include:
- Immediate licence suspension
- Fines and vehicle impoundment
- Criminal charges and other legal consequences
Ontario also has zero-tolerance laws for:
- Drivers aged 21 and under
- Novice drivers (G1, G2, M1, M2)
- Commercial drivers
Learn more: Impaired driving | ontario.ca
Possessing, trafficking, or producing illegal drugs is prohibited under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) and may result in serious penalties, including fines, criminal charges, and imprisonment.
Learn more about the CDSA.
Alcohol, Drug & Gambling Services - 905-546-3606 Monday to Friday 9:00 am to 4:30 pm
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH)
Fraud can happen to anyone. Scammers use phone calls, text messages, emails, social media and in-person contact to steal money or personal information. They may impersonate trusted organizations, promise financial opportunities or create a sense of urgency to pressure you into acting quickly.
Hamilton Police encourages you to pause, ask questions and verify information before sending money or sharing personal details.
Protect Yourself
- Take your time. Be cautious of urgent demands, threats or requests to keep a transaction secret.
- Verify who you are dealing with. Contact the organization using a number from its official website or the back of your bank card. Do not rely on caller ID or contact information provided in a suspicious message.
- Protect your accounts. Never share passwords, PINs or one-time verification codes with someone who contacts you.
- Watch for unusual payment requests. Demands for gift cards, cryptocurrency or money transfers can be warning signs of fraud.
- Use caution online. Avoid unexpected links and attachments. Research sellers, investment opportunities and job offers before providing money or information.
- Strengthen your security. Use unique passwords and enable multi-factor authentication wherever possible.
If You Have Been Scammed
Stop communicating with the suspected scammer and contact your financial institution immediately if you sent money or shared banking information. Save messages, receipts, account details and other records that may help investigators.
Report fraud to Hamilton Police at 905-546-4925. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
You can also report fraud or attempted fraud to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, even if you did not lose money. Reporting to the Centre does not replace reporting the incident to local police.
Being scammed is not a reason to feel ashamed. Reporting helps police identify patterns and may help prevent others from being targeted.
Visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre for information on current scams, warning signs and steps to take if you have been affected.
Hamilton Police Service offers fraud prevention information and educational presentations for community groups and organizations.
To schedule a presentation, email communityengagement@hamiltonpolice.ca
Banking and ATM Scams
Criminals may steal debit or credit card information through techniques such as card skimming, resulting in unauthorized withdrawals or purchases.
Distraction Theft
Distraction theft occurs when a suspect distracts a victim in order to steal personal belongings such as wallets, purses, jewelry, or bank cards. These incidents often occur in parking lots, stores, or at bank machines.
Emergency or Family Scams
Fraudsters may pose as a family member, police officer, or lawyer claiming a loved one needs urgent financial help.
Extortion Fraud
Extortion fraud involves threats or intimidation to pressure victims into sending money or providing personal information. Common examples include threats involving personal images, online activity, or harm to loved ones unless payment is made.
Government and Financial Scams
Scammers may pretend to represent government agencies or financial institutions and pressure victims to make immediate payments or provide personal information.
Prize and Lottery Scams
You may receive calls, texts, emails, or letters claiming you have won a prize but must first pay fees or taxes to collect it.
Advance Fee Scams
Scammers request payment upfront for products, services, loans, or opportunities that do not exist.
- Never share your PIN or banking information
- Be cautious when buying or selling items online
- Avoid sharing personal information with unknown callers or businesses
- Review your bank and credit card statements regularly
- Obtain a credit check annually
- Be cautious of urgent requests for money or personal information
- If something seems too good to be true, it probably is
- Contact your bank or financial institution immediately
- Report the incident to police by calling the non-emergency line at 905-546-4925
- Click here to report a fraud online
Staying safe online starts with knowing what to watch for and how to protect yourself. Hamilton Police encourages everyone to safeguard personal information, use strong passwords and think carefully before clicking or sharing. Explore the resources below for practical advice to help you and your family navigate the online world safely.
Personal information shared online can be used by criminals for fraud, identity theft, or scams.
Safety Tips
- Never share passwords, banking information, or personal identification online unless the source is trusted
- Use strong, unique passwords and enable multi-factor authentication whenever possible
- Avoid posting personal details such as your address, phone number, travel plans, or financial information on social media
- Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi networks
- Consider using a password manager to securely store and create passwords.
Social media platforms can expose users to scams, impersonation, cyberbullying, and privacy risks.
Safety Tips
- Review and update privacy settings regularly
- Only accept friend or follower requests from people you know
- Be cautious when sharing photos or location information
- Think carefully before posting content online — information shared online can remain public permanently
- Report suspicious accounts, threats, or harassment to the platform and police when appropriate
Cyberbullying involves using technology, social media, messaging apps, or gaming platforms to intimidate, threaten, embarrass, or harass others.
What You Can Do
- Save screenshots or messages as evidence
- Block and report abusive users
- Talk to a trusted adult, teacher, or police officer
- Report threats, harassment, or criminal behaviour to police
If someone is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1.
Cybercriminals may use emails, texts, phone calls, or fake websites to steal money or personal information.
Common scams include:
- Phishing emails or text messages
- Fake online stores or marketplace listings
- Romance scams
- Investment or cryptocurrency scams
- Emergency or impersonation scams
Safety Tips
- Do not click suspicious links or attachments
- Verify requests for money or personal information independently
- Be cautious of urgent messages demanding immediate action
- If something seems suspicious, pause and verify before responding
Buying and selling online can carry risks.
Safety Tips
- Meet buyers and sellers in public places
- Use the Hamilton Police Buy and Sell Exchange Zone when possible
- Avoid sending money before receiving an item
- Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true
- Keep communication within trusted platforms whenever possible
Children and teens can be especially vulnerable online.
Safety Tips
- Encourage open conversations about internet use
- Use parental controls and privacy settings
- Teach children not to share personal information or meet online contacts in person
- Keep computers and devices in shared family spaces when possible
- Monitor apps, games, and social media platforms being used
If you are a victim of online fraud, harassment, identity theft, or cybercrime:
- Call the Hamilton Police non-emergency line at 905-546-4925
- Report online where applicable
- Contact your financial institution if banking or financial information has been compromised
In emergencies or situations involving immediate danger, call 9-1-1.
Taking simple precautions can help protect you, your family, and your property from becoming a target for crime. Hamilton Police Service encourages residents to stay aware, prepared, and connected with their community.
How Auto Theft Happens
Common auto theft methods include:
- Stealing keys left inside vehicles or near entryways
- Using electronic devices to capture or relay signals from key fobs
- Entering unlocked vehicles
- Reprogramming key fobs through onboard diagnostic ports
- Theft during online vehicle sale meetups or test drives
Vehicles may also be targeted for resale, export, dismantling for parts, or use in other crimes.
Prevention Tips
- Always lock your vehicle and close all windows
- Never leave your vehicle running unattended
- Keep keys and key fobs away from doors and windows
- Consider using a steering wheel lock or tracking device
- Park in well-lit, secure areas whenever possible
- Do not leave valuables visible inside your vehicle
- Use caution when meeting buyers or sellers for vehicle transactions
- Consider storing key fobs in RFID-blocking pouches or containers
If Your Vehicle is Stolen
If your vehicle has been stolen:
- Call 9-1-1 if the theft is in progress
- For non-emergencies, call 905-546-4925
- Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible
Be prepared to provide:
- Licence plate number
- Vehicle make, model, year, and colour
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), if available
- Details about when and where the vehicle was last seen
You can also report theft-related information anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
Residential break-ins are often crimes of opportunity. Homes may be targeted based on accessibility, visibility, or signs that the property is unoccupied.
Properties at greater risk may include:
- Corner lots
- Homes backing onto parks or open spaces
- Homes that appear vacant or poorly maintained
Home Safety Tips
- Trim shrubs and hedges to maintain clear sightlines
- Keep garage, screen, and sliding doors locked
- Consider additional locks for windows and patio doors
- Get to know your neighbours and watch out for each other’s property
- Cancel deliveries or ask someone to collect mail and newspapers while away
- Avoid posting travel plans on social media
- Consider asking a trusted person to check on your home while you are away
Hamilton Police Service offers free residential and business security audits. For more information, visit our Business Safety and Security drop down.
Personal Safety Tips
- Trust your instincts and move to a safe place if something feels wrong
- Walk with another person whenever possible
- Keep your phone charged and let someone know your route or arrival time
- Stay in well-lit, populated areas
- Avoid distractions when walking alone
- Carry keys in hand before approaching your vehicle
- Lock your vehicle immediately after entering
- Avoid displaying valuables or counting money in public
- Sit near the driver when using public transit
- Never pick up hitchhikers
If you believe you are being followed or are in danger, go to a safe public place and call police.
- Keep luggage and personal belongings with you at all times
- Use hotel door locks and security devices
- Store valuables securely and avoid displaying expensive items publicly
- Consider using a concealed travel pouch for important documents and money
Every season brings opportunities for outdoor recreation and activities. Hamilton Police Service encourages residents to take proper safety precautions to help prevent injuries and enjoy activities safely.
All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) can be dangerous if operated improperly.
Safety Tips
- Wear an approved helmet, goggles, gloves, boots, long sleeves, and pants
- Keep both feet on the footrests
- Ride at safe speeds and adjust carefully on hills and corners
- Never operate an ATV under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Never carry passengers on single-rider ATVs
- Stay off paved roads unless permitted by law
Learn more about ATV safety.
Operating a boat safely helps prevent injuries and drownings.
Safety Tips
- Wear a properly fitted life jacket
- Never operate a boat while impaired
- Check weather and water conditions before heading out
- Carry emergency supplies, including a first aid kit and communication device
- Avoid boating alone whenever possible
All boat operators in Canada must carry a valid Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC).
Learn more about boating safety.
Cyclists must follow the same rules of the road as other vehicles.
Safety Tips
- Obey traffic signs and signals
- Ride on the right side of the road
- Use hand signals and lights at night
- Wear a properly fitted helmet
- Watch for road hazards and stay alert
Helmets are required by law for cyclists under 18 years old.
Learn more through Ontario’s Guide to Safe Cycling.
Help keep Halloween safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Safety Tips
- Choose bright, reflective costumes
- Use makeup instead of masks when possible
- Carry flashlights or glow sticks
- Trick-or-treat in groups and stay in familiar neighbourhoods
- Cross streets safely and inspect candy before eating
The holiday season often brings increased shopping, travel, and social activity.
Safety Tips
- Keep gifts and valuables out of sight in vehicles
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash
- Lock doors and windows when leaving home
- Use timers for lights when travelling
- Be cautious of scams and fraudulent charity requests
Snowmobiling requires preparation and proper equipment.
Safety Tips
- Wear appropriate winter protective gear and an approved helmet
- Carry emergency supplies, including food, water, blankets, and a flashlight
- Ride with a partner whenever possible
- Stay on marked trails and obey posted speed limits
- Never operate a snowmobile while impaired
- Avoid travelling on unsafe ice conditions
Learn more through the Ontario Ministry of Transportation.
Children should always be supervised around pools, lakes, beaches, and bathtubs. Even shallow water can pose a drowning risk.
Safety Tips
- Supervise children at all times near water
- Install proper barriers around pools
- Avoid alcohol during water activities
- Be cautious around currents and changing water conditions
Older adults can be more vulnerable to crime, fraud, abuse, and social isolation. Hamilton Police Service provides resources, education, and support to help seniors stay safe and informed.
Hamilton Police has officers and resources dedicated to addressing issues affecting seniors in our community.
To speak with a Senior Support Officer, call 905-546-4925.
Elder abuse refers to harm caused to an older adult by a caregiver, family member, friend, or another person they rely on for support.
Abuse may be financial, physical, psychological, or involve neglect or self-neglect. This can include theft or fraud, misuse of Power of Attorney, threats, isolation, physical harm, abandonment, or failing to provide proper care.
Warning signs may include unexplained injuries, fear or withdrawal, poor hygiene, sudden financial concerns, or missing personal belongings.
If you suspect abuse, seek help from a trusted professional, community support agency, or police.
Fraudsters often target seniors by taking advantage of health concerns, finances, or trust.
Common scams include:
Prize or Lottery Scams
Claims that you have won a prize but must first pay fees or taxes.
Home Repair and Inspection Scams
Someone offers unsolicited inspections or urgent repairs and asks for payment upfront.
Health and Medical Scams
Offers for products or treatments that seem too good to be true.
Government or Emergency Scams
Calls pretending to be government agencies, police, or family members requesting immediate money or personal information.
- Never provide personal or banking information over the phone or online unless you initiated the contact
- Be cautious of urgent requests for money or gift cards
- Verify companies and services independently before agreeing to repairs or purchases
- Do not open the door to strangers
- Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or professional if unsure
If something feels suspicious, pause and verify the information before acting.
If you believe you are the victim of fraud, a scam, or abuse:
- Call the Hamilton Police non-emergency line at 905-546-4925
- In an emergency or if someone is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1
Beginning September 1, 2019, Hamilton Police Service implemented a Verified Alarm Response Program, requiring alarm companies and alarm users to verify alarm activations before police will be dispatched.
The program helps reduce false alarms and ensures police resources are available for legitimate emergencies.
Police dispatch will only occur when there is evidence of criminal activity or an imminent threat to personal safety through one or more of the following:
- Audio verification
- Video verification
- An on-scene witness (owner, keyholder, security guard, etc.)
- Multiple alarm activation points indicating suspected criminal activity
Panic, hold-up, and duress alarms do not require verification.
Hamilton Police Service may charge the following fees for false alarm dispatches:
- False alarm dispatch: $169.50 (including HST)
- Cancelled dispatch: $84.75 (including HST)
A false alarm occurs when there is no evidence of unauthorized entry, criminal activity or an emergency requiring police attendance.
If the property owner or their representative directly requests police dispatch, the invoice will be issued to the property owner.
Alarm owners and users are responsible for maintaining and properly operating their systems to reduce false alarms.
Safety Tips
- Keep alarm systems properly maintained and tested
- Ensure users are trained on how to operate the system
- Update emergency contact and keyholder information regularly
- Respond promptly to alarm company calls
If a break and enter, theft, mischief, or property damage has occurred, contact Hamilton Police immediately to file a report.
Hamilton Police Service no longer requires alarm systems to be pre-registered.
If police respond to an alarm at a property without an existing permit, one will be created and provided to the monitoring station.
Appeals regarding false alarm fees must be submitted through the alarm monitoring company.
For more information call 905-546-4718 or email alarms@hamiltonpolice.ca
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