Released on September 1, 2011
The province has officially launched a pilot program in Prince Albert aimed at improving the security of the homes of low-income seniors.
The Seniors Home Security Program will provide free home security devices to single senior citizens who earn $20,000 or less a year; senior couples who earn $30,000 or less a year; or to seniors who have been victims of a break-in.
"This program will help provide some of our most vulnerable citizens with more peace of mind," Corrections, Public Safety and Policing Minister D.F. (Yogi) Huyghebaert said. "The Seniors Home Security Program is another example of our strong support for our province's seniors. It is also a clear demonstration of our government's commitment to safety and security."
A senior who wants to take advantage of the Seniors Home Security Program must fill out an application form and submit it to the Ministry of Corrections, Public Safety and Policing.
Once a senior has been notified that they qualify for the program, he or she may contact one of the qualified contractors to set up an appointment for the services offered. The contractor will do a security assessment and, if needed, will install deadbolts, door viewers, smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms and smoke alarm batteries in the home.
The services offered under the Seniors Home Security Program provide basic protection to reduce the likelihood that the senior will suffer from a break and enter or a home invasion.
If the security assessment reveals additional steps that should be taken to maximize home security, the senior may decide to do those things; however, he or she will be responsible for paying for the additional devices and installation.
The Prince Albert pilot will last for six months and, if it proves to be successful, will then be implemented province-wide. The province has allocated $500,000 for the pilot program in Prince Albert.
The ministry is establishing a list of contractors qualified to do the work. Information about the program is available by calling 1-855-524-6034.
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For more information, contact:
Art Jones
Corrections, Public Safety and Policing
Regina
Phone: (306) 787-8606
Email: art.jones@gov.sk.ca