Medicine Hat Police mobile app downloaded 4,000 times since launch

According to Inspector Joe West, it’s received good reviews so far.

“The push notifications people really like,” he says. “So if you’ve got a road closure or an area we need the public to stay away from, it’s really handy and people really appreciate that. That real time information.”

He says one of the most helpful uses is to submit tips and report crimes. Residents can report minor crimes, such as small thefts.

“Rather than waiting for a police officer to come around you can report online. There’s a number of different offences you can do that for, and a staff sergeant reads that like any other police report and we’ll follow up if there’s any further questions.”

The new feature makes reporting crime more convenient for residents, who have been including more details when they report a crime.

“We’re getting more detailed tips. We get them about problem houses and so forth and it’s certainly a more convenient way to provide that information rather than leaving a message on a phone or some of the other processes we’ve had in place in years past.”

The police service is trying to encourage more residents to download the app, by including a feature on their website, and putting out periodic press releases.

West says he hopes the app gains more traction.

“It’s one of those things that’s just going to take a while to catch on but if you get everyone with a cell phone to sign up for the app it’s all the better for our community and better for us.”

An update for the app is also coming out in the next couple of weeks.

by Jessie Weisner

Medicine Hat Police mobile app downloaded 4,000 times since launch

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