Downtown Saskatoon is conducting a security camera call-out with member businesses.

Executive Director Shawna Nelson says collecting a list of businesses that are equipped with security cameras makes for an easier response to suspicious activity, property damages, or thefts should they occur in the area.

“Police or community safety officers often need to know where the security cameras are located so they can quickly gather information that will result in a speedy investigation.”

The Downtown Saskatoon Business Improvement District includes over 1000 businesses spanning across 108 blocks.

“There’s a lot of spots that are not visible, and it’s (about) understanding where we have strong coverage and where we have weak coverage. Where we may have weak coverage, there may be other strategies like adding extra lighting or adding more (police) presence in those areas.”

She says once the data is collected, next steps would be to determine where the problem areas are, and either work with property owners or the City of Saskatoon to implement some solutions.