I AM A TENANT 
Safety
Building Trust and Working with Partners
Your Safety
OCH knows that tenants play an important role in making our communities stronger. Recent changes in the way we deliver safety services to tenants show this. By engaging our communities, increasing communication between staff and tenants, and allowing tenants to be a large part of safety solutions, OCH communities have become secure places where residents can get more enjoyment out of their homes and neighbourhoods.
CSS staff conduct regular foot patrols, respond to concerns, complete building and community safety audits, document their work, and share information with partners when needed. They are also trained in mental health, addictions, behaviour management, and conflict resolution to help them respond effectively. By working together, CSS staff and tenants help create safer, healthier, and more welcoming neighbourhoods.
Interested in joining the Community Safety team? Keep an eye out for job openings.
In 2026, our Community Safety Services celebrated 20 years of supporting tenants across Ottawa.
Since 2006, the team has adapted to meet the changing needs of OCH communities and continues to promote safety, prevention, and community well‑being.
Who do you call?
NON-EMERGENCY SECURITY ISSUES
Call OCH Community Safety Services (CSS) at 613-731-1182 option 1 on a 24/7 basis for all non-emergency security issues.
LIFE-THREATENING EMERGENCIES
Call 9-1-1 for all life-threatening emergencies. Call 613-230-6211 for other emergencies. Contact your Tenant and Community Worker (TCW)
if you require after-crisis services.
When safe to do so, call OCH Community Safety Services (CSS)
at 613-731-1182 option 1.
COMPLAINTS ABOUT PARKING, NOISE AND PETS
OCH Community Safety Services is your first point of contact. For complaints about parking, noise, and pets, call us at 613-731-1182.
You may also call 3-1-1 for By-law Services. You can visit their website for a full description of City of Ottawa By-Laws.
CRIME STOPPERS
Call Crime Stoppers 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or Text CRIMES (274637) keyword “tip252” to share information that help police solve a crime.
Call OCH’s Community Safety Services 24h/7 at 613-731-1182, option 1.
Call 911 if your life or the life of someone else is in danger.
SAFETY TIPS
- NEVER GIVE OUT COPIES OF YOUR BUILDING OR UNIT KEY.
In addition, don’t let stranger follow you through your building’s security door and do not buzz someone in unless you are expecting a visitor. If you feel intimidated by someone, use an alternate entrance.
- INTRODUCE YOURSELF TO YOUR COMMUNITY
There are several groups within your community, such as Tenant Associations and Tenant Circles that you can introduce yourself to. Find out about all the ways you can get involved in your community.
- ALWAYS LOOK INSIDE THE ELEVATOR BEFORE ENTERING.
If you are suspicious of another passenger, wait for the next elevator.
- DO NOT USE OBJECTS TO PROP YOUR DOOR OPEN.
Also, remove any objects that you may come across that are keeping doors open.
- KEEP YOUR DOORS LOCKED AT ALL TIMES – EVEN WHILE YOU’RE DOING LAUNDRY.
Also, remember to keep your balcony doors locked when not in use.
- ASK SOMEONE YOU TRUST TO CHECK UP ON YOUR APARTMENT.
If you are going to be away for a while, ask someone you trust to check on your apartment and collect your mail for you.