Exclusive: Secret Code Revealed for Specific Parking Spaces

Residents of Pembroke, Ontario, will soon see new symbols on parking spaces outside the local Ontario Provincial Police station. These spots, marked with a handshake icon, are designated as community safety zones for in-person exchanges related to online purchases.

The initiative, named Project Safe Trade, was launched by the Upper Ottawa Valley Ontario Provincial Police. It aims to provide safer meeting points for transactions, steering individuals away from private settings where they could encounter unknown individuals. The safety zones are open 24/7 and don't require appointments.

During peak shopping seasons like the holidays, these safety zones become particularly valuable as online buying and selling activities surge. While police officers don't oversee transactions, their close presence offers a layer of security. Should any issues arise, help is readily available, deterring potential problems and fostering a secure environment.

To enhance safety, residents are advised to take precautions such as meeting in daylight, bringing a companion, and choosing well-lit locations. Keeping records of online communications and agreed terms until the transaction concludes is also recommended. By combining these safety practices with the use of community safety spaces, Pembroke locals can confidently engage in online transactions.