Fort Smith (May 08/06) - An effort is underway to launch a Citizens on Patrol group in Fort Smith to help police fight crime in the community.

"We hope to have it up and running by the end of May. That's the plan," says RCMP Sgt. Craig Seafoot.

Based on a couple of public meetings, the sergeant estimates between 12-15 residents are interested in participating.

"That's more than ample to get it started," he says.

At least a dozen people are needed to have patrols on a consistent basis, especially on weekends, he explains. "It can't be sporadic."

Otherwise, vandals and other criminals will not take the effort seriously, he says.

"It's a deterrent. It does work," Seafoot adds, noting it was effective in Drumheller, Alta., where he once served. A Citizens on Patrol group was formed in Yellowknife in 2004.

One of the volunteers is Clyde Gill, a substitute teacher. He says he got involved because he feels the RCMP have a very big job to do and residents can help.

"I feel, as an individual, there's a contribution I can make," he says.

Gill, 43, also notes he is a parent of two young daughters. "I want my community to be safe for them.

"If everyone offered a few hours a month, the community would be a safer place to live."

Seafoot says the citizens would patrol the community in pairs to ensure their safety.

"If you see anything suspicious, you report it," he says.

That could include things like lights on in a business at unusual hours, the licence plate numbers of suspicious vehicles or youth hanging around late at night.

While the weekends would be a prime time for the patrols, Seafoot says patrol members could be out at any time of the week, depending on availability of volunteers.

Volunteers have to be 19 years of age and over, and submit to a criminal records check. Seafoot says the volunteers will be trained.