By SUE SUCHYTA
Sunday Times Newspapers
MELVINDALE – Police Chief Chris Egan announced the formation of a Volunteers in Public Safety group, VIPS, during the Oct. 7 city council meeting.
The group would work in conjunction with CERT, the Community Emergency Response Team.
VIPS members would enhance the city’s public safety by observing and reporting incidents that require a public safety response, and by teaching residents about crime prevention and other safety topics.
The mission of the Melvindale VIPS would be to “Observe, Report and Educate.” In addition to making residents aware of rules and local ordinances, they will report any situations they see that require a public safety response.
Volunteers will be giving back to the community, finding a productive way to use their free time and staying engaged within the community.
In addition to meeting people, volunteers will learn about public safety operations.
The VIPS will be visible but non-confrontational patrollers, and will help at community special events, such as those held in city parks.
The volunteers will also be encouraged to inform patrol officers of handicap parking violations, and to conduct checks as part of the Homewatch Program, which monitors vacant houses to report problems.
Volunteers must be at least 21 years old, have a valid Michigan driver’s license, have a satisfactory driving record, no criminal convictions, pass a background check and attend training sessions.
For more information, contact the Melvindale police department during business hours.