3
min read -
November 26, 2025

Blackbird Security Provides Support for Project Arrow

By
Ranko Vukovic

Late last year, the Vancouver Police Department received increased community feedback about rising crime and disorder in the city. The resulting survey provided some fascinating statistics:

  •   78% of all respondents are concerned about crime in Vancouver
  •   74% of respondents said crime has gotten worse in Downtown Vancouver in the past 12 months
  •   58% are concerned about crime in their neighbourhood
  •   33% changed a behaviour in the past year because of crime
  •   20% of business owners had been victim of a property crime in the past year, and
  •   18% of business owners considered closing or moving to a new location due to crime

With 2020 seeing a 260 per cent increase in shoplifting incidents involving weapons, the Vancouver Police Department decided to take action, creating ‘Project Arrow.’ This month-long public-private initiative enlisted the help of business owners and security companies to help prevent violent shoplifting and return confidence to the city’s downtown core. Blackbird Security was honoured to play a role in this vital initiative.

Uniformed Blackbird security guard in retail location

Preventing Shoplifting in Downtown Vancouver

Throughout early 2021, Blackbird Security has partnered with the Vancouver Police Department and our national retail partners based in Downtown Vancouver on this important ‘Boost and Bust’ initiative. Within a month, Project Arrow had provided a huge success, with 130 shoplifters arrested, 35 weapons seized, and a total of 268 total criminal charges.

Communications with the VPD throughout Project Arrow were handled by Blackbird Security supervisor, Arpan Singh. Arpan is one of the superstars of our security team, leaning on his passion for loss prevention to help serve our clients in the retail security industry in Vancouver for the past two years.

With his advanced security training and Occupational First Aid (Level 2) certification, Arpan’s skills in incident de-escalation and conflict resolution are typical of the best-in-class training received by Blackbird Security guards. With his focus on the safety of staff and customers alike, he was the perfect member of our team to lead this vital initiative.

Uniformed Blackbird security guards standing in front of building

 

Here to Help 

Blackbird Security is Western Canada’s fastest growing security company. If you’re looking to partner with us for Retail Security, Loss Prevention, or one of our other specialized security services, we’d love to hear from you! If we can assist you in any way at this time, please Contact Us and we’ll be there for you.

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Diagram showing harmful X-rays blocked by a lead apron and harmless light passing through.Diagram showing harmful X-rays blocked by a lead apron and harmless light passing through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What services do security companies offer?
At Blackbird Security, we offer a range of security services, such as:
- On-site uniform security
- Luxury suit & tie security
- Mobile patrols
- Alarm response
- Access control
- CCTV monitoring
- Event security
- Loss prevention (undercover security)
- Tactical Security
- Concierge/Front Desk Security
- Executive Protection
- Office & Facilities Security
- Government Security
- Parking Enforcement
- Residential Security
These services work in unison to safeguard businesses, people, and assets, offering peace of mind and comprehensive protection.At Blackbird Security, we are industry leaders in providing all of these services. Our expertise ensures tailored security solutions that meet your specific requirements. Browse further to learn more: Blackbird Security Services - Blackbird Security
Can security services be customized?
Many providers offer standard security programs, but Blackbird Security emphasizes a collaborative approach to customization. By considering factors such as your industry, location, size, and specific risks, we work closely with you to design security strategies that fit your needs. This might include adjusting patrol schedules, reporting frequency, or tailoring patrol routes to align with your operations.This is possible through our dedicated Client Services team as well as our in-house Control Centre and Reporting teams. Customization is a fundamental part of how we provide effective and seamless security solutions
Are security providers in Canada regulated?
Yes, most countries and regions (including Canada) have licensing bodies and regulations that govern security providers. Check local laws to ensure your provider complies with these standards.
How do I measure the effectiveness of security measures?
Measuring the effectiveness of security measures involves tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) to evaluate how well systems and personnel are meeting safety and asset protection goals. Start by analyzing incident response times, reductions in theft, vandalism, or shrinkage, and overall resolution rates for reported issues. Comparing pre- and post-implementation data helps demonstrate tangible improvements in safety and loss prevention. Regular audits, surveys, and risk assessment reports can also gauge the reliability and perception of security measures.

Key KPIs to track include:
- Incident response times: Faster responses to alarms or emergencies.
- Reduction in theft/vandalism: Compare loss data before and after implementation.
- Patrol compliance: Track patrol frequency and adherence via GPS or logs.
- False alarm rates: Lower rates ensure focus on real threats.
- Client/Employee satisfaction: Gather feedback to measure confidence in security.
- Client services: Dedicated account representative who supports ongoing needs & can adjust strategy as needed
What level of support can I expect from Blackbird Security
We ensure all of our clients have the utmost support for their businesses, and there's a few ways we do this:

- Allowing access to our 24/7 Control centre for all clients, which is based out of our head office in Vancouver, BC. Clients can call this centre and have a mobile guard swiftly deployed to their business for any spontaneous incidents that occur. We believe in operating it inhouse to ensure all services are streamlined and optimized for the best communication. Our control canter can be reached at this number for current clients: 1-888-991-2622.
- We have a dedicated client services team which directly communicates with clients on a day-to-day basis. Our client services often perform site check ups and can assist with any issues that arise at your business.

Your peace of mind is our priority. We’re more than a service provider—we’re a partner in protecting your business. With our team working tirelessly to anticipate and resolve challenges, you can focus on running your business with confidence, knowing we’re always here to support you. Together, we build safer environments and stronger partnerships, every step of the way.

Secure Your Operation Today

Talk to our security experts about protecting your facility. We’ll assess your needs and build a plan that works.
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Seven diverse security personnel standing in a row outdoors with city buildings in the background, wearing security uniforms.