The classic red and white Block Parent sign is seeing fewer and fewer windows in Blackfalds and residents are being encouraged to get involved.  

The symbol lets children, seniors and others know that help is there if they are lost, frightened, or in distress.  

Not too long ago a child was followed home by a suspicious vehicle and Block Parent became a safe haven.  

Chair Person, Louise Rellis said, Block Parent is more than just a place to go when you're in danger.

“It can be something as simple as being locked out, or getting lost on the way home. Also if a parent is a few minutes late, a child can wait at the house until they get there. The more Block Parents we have on the block, the more it gives the kids somewhere to go and increases safety.”

Rellis added, currently there are around 9,000 people in Blackfalds, but only approximately 12 homes that participate. Businesses are also encouraged to sign up as well.

Everyone who resides or works in a place of business associated with Block Parent, over the age of 12, receives a criminal record check.

Those interested in signing up to volunteer in Blackfalds can email info@blackfaldsblockparent.ca or Louise Rellis directly at 403- 318-7690.

Like other struggling Block Parents in neighbouring communities, Lacombe is no exception.  

Currently around 12 houses are participating, creating a need for more people to open their homes as a safe refuge for children, seniors and others who need it.  

President of Lacombe Community Watch Association, Debbie Gallant said, there's been an increase in crime in Central Alberta and Lacombe is no exception.

“One of the ways we can effectively and pro-actively reduce crime in the community is by partnering with law enforcement and getting on board as a community to do something in a positive way. Ideally we’d like to see several Block Parent homes in each individual neighbourhood.”

Gallant adds in conjunction with Block Parent, Lacombe Community Watch is also made up of Citizens on Patrol, who tour the community looking for crime and Neighbourhood Watch, which encourages neighbourhoods to gather as a group to help organize a safer community.  

All three groups are in need of more volunteers and those interested in Lacombe can e-mail lacombecommunitywatch@gmail.com.