WESTLOCK — In an effort to improve community safety, the Westlock Citizens on Patrol (COP) is giving away free solar-powered motion detector lights to residents. The initiative, dubbed "Light Up the Night," aims to illuminate dark alleys and streets, reducing hazards for pedestrians and deterring criminal activity.
Thanks to a generous $9,700 donation from 100 Women Who Care, the group has purchased approximately 300 lights. COP President Garth Kohlsmith said the project addresses a critical need in the community.
"Some of the alleys we drive down in this town are totally black—there’s not one light on the whole alley. If people are walking down there, it’s dangerous without any light."
The response has been overwhelming—within just two days of launching the program, over 150 people expressed interest. Due to high demand, residents will initially receive one light per household.
Kohlsmith said the idea had been on his mind for some time, but funding was a hurdle.
"We didn’t have the money to do it, but when this donation came from 100 Women Who Care, we were able to move forward," he said.
The offer extends to all residents of Westlock, Westlock County, and small communities in the county. Already, several rural and town residents have signed up.
Those interested can contact Westlock COP via email at [email protected] or by phone at 780-307-8226 or 403-819-1878. COP volunteers will even install the lights for recipients.
Motion-sensor lights are a proven crime deterrent and also assist COP volunteers and RCMP during patrols, according to COP. The COP program operates as the "eyes and ears" of the community, working alongside law enforcement to monitor suspicious activity, said Kohlsmith. Volunteers patrol in pairs, day or night, reporting concerns directly to authorities.
As a volunteer-driven organization, Westlock COP relies on donations and community support. While they receive some funding from the Town of Westlock, most resources come from fundraising efforts.
