Results of the 2006 Community Survey by Canton's Public Safety Department show 98% of residents feel safe in Canton. The objective of the community survey was to identify any problem areas in the delivery of police and fire service and to provide an indication on how safe residents feel. Results also indicate 99% of residents surveyed who had used the services of the fire department rated that service as excellent or good.

"It is gratifying that Canton residents continue to have a high regard for police and fire service," said Canton Township Supervisor Tom Yack. "It is a tribute to the leadership and dedication of the officers, firefighters and staff of the Public Safety Department. A safe and secure community is one of the cornerstones of an outstanding quality of life."

The survey was mailed out to a random sample of 3,854 residents in April. Results were tabulated earlier this month and showed high marks for both police and fire in all areas surveyed. When asked to rate the department's image residents responded with 92% rating the police department's image as excellent or good, and 98.5% rating the fire department's image as excellent or good. Survey results also indicate residents feel the police department should concentrate its resources first on criminal activity followed closely by crime prevention and then traffic enforcement.

According to Public Safety Director John Santomauro, results from the survey provided a "report card" on how police and fire services are viewed by the public. These results will be used by police and fire command groups to develop strategic plans to address areas of concern and by community policing teams to develop a plan of action for their individual areas. Santomauro also stated that the survey would be used as a benchmark for future surveys and as an educational tool for the department to enhance its services.

Results of Canton Public Safety's 2006 Community Survey can be viewed on the department web site at www.canton-mi.org/publicsafety. For further information on the survey contact Canton Public Safety Administration at 394-5445.

MEDIA CONTACT: John Santomauro, Director of Public Safety, 734/ 394-5445.