Snow Lake is touting its nearly non-existent crime rate in a bid to convince commuting mine workers to relocate to the peaceful town.
Newly released figures from the Canadian Centre for Justice Statistics show that in 2013, Snow Lake averaged only about one reported crime per week.
“People in Snow Lake don’t lock their car doors,” said MaryAnn Mihychuk, economic development officer for the town. “In fact when I locked my house door, my neighbour was frustrated because he said, ‘Well, what if I had to come in and take care of something and the door’s locked?’ So it’s an unusual culture, but it’s a culture of safety and protection.”
Mihychuk has incorporated that culture into a marketing campaign designed to ensure Snow Lake capitalizes on a mineral-fuelled resurgence.
Production
Hudbay’s massive Lalor mine near the town is entering full production, but Snow Lake residents say a significant number of employees are commuting from Flin Flon and other centres.
Statistics show that Snow Lake had 58 reported Criminal Code violations in 2013, giving it among the lowest crime rates in Manitoba – and substantially below those of Flin Flon, The Pas and Thompson.
Over half of the crime Snow Lake did experience was related to property violations such as mischief and theft.
Snow Lake now has an estimated population of about 900 people.
