Community Safety Survey
Overview
The 2026 Community Safety Survey gathered feedback from Niagara residents to support the Niagara Police Service Board’s 2026 - 2029 Strategic Plan and establish baseline measures of community safety, trust, confidence, police visibility and service experiences.
Between June 27 and August 7, 2026, community members participated online, through community partner networks, at NRPS district front desks, and during local events. The 22-question survey explored perceptions of safety, crime and public-safety concerns, reporting behaviours, experiences with NRPS, and community priorities.
A total of 2,313 responses were received, providing valuable insights to help guide community safety initiatives while strengthening relationships and informing future planning.
We recognize that questions about victimization, safety and police interactions may be difficult for some people. You may choose how much of the report you wish to review.
Information about community and victim-support services are available through Victim Services Niagara
Community Safety
Neighbourhood Safety
69%
of respondents reported feeling safe, or very safe, in their own neighbourhood.
Niagara Safety
45%
reported feeling safe, or very safe, when considering Niagara overall.
Community Safety
64%
believe community safety in Niagara has become somewhat or much worse during the past year.
Interactions with NRPS
75%
of respondents with recent contact with the NRPS reported being treated professionally.
73%
of respondents with recent contact with the NRPS reported being with respect.
66%
of respondents with recent contact with the NRPS reported feeling listened to.
Visibility and Confidence
44%
reported that police visibility had remained the same
22%
believed police had become more visible.
30%
believed that police had become less visible
You Shared. What We Heard. What Happens Next.
The 2026 survey establishes a baseline for monitoring progress throughout the 2026–2029 Strategic Plan.
Continued Focus
- Neighbourhood Presence
Maintain authentic and consistent police presence in communities. - Safer Public Spaces
Continue place-based, hotspot and evidence-informed approaches. - Service Capacity and Quality
Maintain high standards of professionalism while addressing response time, follow-up and communication. - Community Partnerships
Continue coordinated work with municipalities, health, housing, social services, businesses and community organizations. - Measurement and Accountability
Repeat core survey indicators and examine them alongside crime, calls for service, response times, workload, proactive activity and engagement measures.