Vancouver, BC — Vancouver is becoming a safer city. Thanks to the leadership of Mayor Ken Sim and the ABC Team, the City of Vancouver has made historic investments in public safety and emergency services, fully-funding both the Vancouver Police Department (VPD) and Vancouver Fire and Rescue Services (VFRS) for the first time in decades.
These investments are producing measurable results across the city.
Vancouver has recorded its lowest violent crime rate in 23 years, with incidents dropping from 1,342 cases in the first quarter of 2024 to 1,192 in the first quarter of 2025—the lowest level since records began in 2002. Total violent crime is down 18 percent, robberies are down 44 percent, and serious assaults are down 23 percent.
Neighbourhoods across the city are also seeing improvements. Violent crime in Gastown is down 9 percent, Chinatown is down 18 percent, and Strathcona is down 14 percent, showing that these targeted investments are having a meaningful, city-wide impact.
Vancouver Fire and Rescue Services are also reporting positive results. Between February 13 and August 31, 2025, compared to the same period in 2024, False alarm responses dropped by 31 percent, and medical overdoses fell by 36 percent. Overall, Fire Halls 1 and 2 experienced a 28 percent reduction in call volumes, while Fire Hall 8 reported a 27 percent decrease over the same timeframe.
“When we invest in public safety, we invest in people,” said Sarah Kanakos, ABC Vancouver Communications Director. “By supporting our police, firefighters, and emergency responders, we are delivering real results for residents and building a Vancouver where everyone feels safe.”
ABC Vancouver remains committed to fiscal responsibility and transparency, continuing to lead with smart investments that make Vancouver one of the safest cities in Canada.
Media Contact:
Sarah Kanakos
Director of Communications, ABC Vancouver
sarah.kanakos@abcvancouver.ca