PALADIN SECURITY PROGRAM
Downtown Van has partnered with Paladin Security Services to enhance community safety efforts within our district.
Launched in August 2024, this initiative introduced two full-time security guards who patrol the Downtown Van district daily from 2 PM to 10 PM. Their primary role is to support the Downtown Safety Ambassadors by responding to high-priority calls, creating a buffer between incidents that may be outside the scope of the Ambassador role, but below the threshold of warranting a police presence.
This program has allowed us to test a more comprehensive security service for our members, while providing additional support for our Ambassadors. Paladin has a more security-focused role, while still maintaining a completely hands-off approach to community safety. Together, the Ambassadors and Paladin will continue to assist our members, residents and visitors in our 90-block catchment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about the Paladin Security Program.
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The needs of our members have evolved significantly in the post-pandemic landscape. This program enables us to deliver a more comprehensive security response while upholding Downtown Van’s compassionate and community-centered approach to addressing social issues. The program is reviewed and renewed on an annual basis.
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The Paladin Security team are:
- Certified to administer naloxone.
- Occupational First-Aid Level 2 certified to provide more comprehensive first-aid.
- Able to provide an alternative for a police response to non-violent calls.
- The Paladin Security team will not be a replacement for emergency services.
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This team will have their Advanced Security Training (AST), Occupational First-Aid Level 2 (OFA2), Team Control Tactics, Spontaneous Assault Response and Leadership Skills training. In addition to this, they will have taken the following online courses through Paladin University:
- The Customer Experience
- Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
- Social Media Policy
- Enhanced Note Taking and Report Writing
- Indigenous Awareness
- Investigations and Crime Scene Protection
- Mental Health Awareness
- Opioid Poisoning Response
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You may submit a request through the Downtown Van App or call 604-689-4357 to request safety services. Requests flow through our Community Safety Dispatch Supervisor who has an in-depth understanding of each team’s scope and can assign the appropriate team.
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Wait times may vary, however, given the size of our 90-block district, we will strive to respond within a 30-minute window.
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Please email the Community Safety Manager, Waseem Laher.
