History and Mission

BPD's SAFE PLACE mirrors Seattle Police Department's SAFE PLACE initiative and is a law enforcement sponsored and overseen initiative that was born out of a need to address low reporting of biased based crimes and school bullying incidents by increasing public trust in law enforcement and feelings of safety in the community. 

How it Works

BPD SAFE PLACE is a unique partnership with the business community and schools that serve a critical role in assisting the victims of these crimes. Businesses and schools that participate place an easily recognizable decal at their entrances. This symbol is a signal for victims of hate crimes that this location has partnered with the police, will call 911 on their behalf and allow them a safe place stay on the premises until the police arrive.   

  • Over 6,000 businesses throughout Seattle currently participate in the program. 
  • Over 200 police agencies throughout the US and Canada are actively working with SPD to initiate Safe Place in their communities.  

Law Enforcement Partners

SPD's SAFE PLACE is currently collaborating with over 120 law enforcement agencies from throughout North America and Europe that are interested in adopting the SPD SAFE PLACE concept in their jurisdiction. 

In July of 2016, the City of Vancouver, BC officially launched their version of the SPD SAFE PLACE.  

In September, 2016, the City of Tucson, Arizona announced their adoption of the SPD SAFE PLACE program.  

In November of 2016, the City of Louisville, Kentucky announced their participation in the SPD SAFE PLACE.  

On November 30, 2016, the City of Orlando, Florida launched the SPD SAFE PLACE Initiative, on the 6-month anniversary of the tragic Pulse Nightclub shooting, where 49 LGBTQ victims and allies were killed.  

In 2017, Los Angeles, Denver, Miami, and other law enforcement agencies from around the United States and Canada continue to adopt the SPD SAFE PLACE, with more agencies inquiring every week.  

Parliament authorized SPD's SAFE PLACE concept throughout Canada and it was soon implemented by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.  

In 2018, the City of Baltimore Police launched SAFE PLACE in their jurisdiction.  

In 2019, Bremerton Police launched a SAFE PLACE program.