THUNDER BAY – LIVING – Whether you’re walking your dog in Marina Park, heading downtown for dinner, or checking your emails from home, safety is something every Thunder Bay resident should consider part of daily life.
Recent incidents with robberies, attacks and even the growing number of drug trap houses have many residents concerned about their safety.
It is not that you or your family are in constant danger, but more a means of taking smart steps to protect yourself.
With changing weather, rising cyber threats, and the challenges of crime prevention, here’s a local guide to staying safer in your city—on the streets, online, and at home.
👣 Street Safety: Know Your Surroundings
While Thunder Bay is known for its natural beauty and friendly spirit, public safety concerns—particularly around certain areas after dark—are very real. Here’s how to be proactive:
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Avoid poorly lit areas at night and stick to main routes when walking.
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Let someone know your route if you’re going out alone.
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Stay alert, not distracted—keep headphones low and phones away.
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Use city transit stops with cameras and good lighting.
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If you feel unsafe, call Thunder Bay Police non-emergency at 807-684-1200 or 911 in an emergency.
Tip: Know the nearest safe space—such as a business that stays open late or a public building—when walking downtown in Fort William or in the Waterfront District.
🏠 At Home: Secure Your Property
Break-ins can happen anywhere, even in quiet neighbourhoods. Protect your home and property with these local-friendly measures:
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Install motion-sensor lights at entrances and backyards.
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Keep doors and windows locked, even when you’re home.
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Don’t leave valuables visible in vehicles or near windows.
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Consider joining or starting a Neighbourhood Watch group in your area.
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Keep snowbanks or overgrown bushes trimmed for better visibility.
Thunder Bay Police often recommend security cameras or smart doorbells as deterrents—especially in high-theft areas.
💻 Cyber Safety: Protect Your Online Life
Scams and digital fraud are on the rise in Thunder Bay and across Canada. Be especially careful with financial or personal information:
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Never click on suspicious links in emails or texts.
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Verify emails or calls requesting banking changes by calling the business directly using a known number.
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Use two-factor authentication on emails and banking apps.
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Regularly monitor credit card and banking statements for suspicious charges.
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Report scams to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre and Thunder Bay Police online reporting portal.
Read: Recent scam targeting Thunder Bay businesses for more examples.
🧠 Community Awareness: Knowledge is Safety
Stay connected to what’s happening in your neighbourhood:
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Follow alerts from Thunder Bay Police, Fire Rescue, and city social media channels.
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Sign up for emergency notifications through the city’s website.
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Attend local safety workshops, town halls, or community patrol events.
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Report suspicious activity. Even small tips can help police prevent bigger crimes.
🚨 Quick Contact List for Thunder Bay Residents:
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Thunder Bay Police (non-emergency): 807-684-1200
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Emergency (Police/Fire/Ambulance): 911
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Thunder Bay Police Online Reporting: Click Here
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Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre: 1-888-495-8501 / Website
Final Word:
Thunder Bay is a proud and resilient city, and community safety starts with awareness and action. Whether you’re securing your home, staying alert downtown, or educating yourself about digital threats, small steps make a big difference. The more we look out for one another, the safer we all are.
