SAULT STE. MARIE -- The Sault Ste. Marie Police Service is teaming up with a local convenience store chain, to help protect victims of crime throughout the city.

The Safe Place Program allows residents in need of police to report incidents at Circle Ks across the city.

"The employee will be more than happy to contact the police and give a place of safety for that individual, until police arrive," said Sgt. Rob Chabot with the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service.

Sgt. Rob Chabot with the Sault Ste. Marie Police
Sgt. Rob Chabot with the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service stands in front of a Circle K store, one of the city's nine newly designated 'Safe Places.' July 26/2020 (Christian D'Avino/CTV News Northern Ontario)

All nine local Circle K stores will take part in the program, designated by a 'Safe Place' decal on the front window.

"Circle K already had the infrastructure in place, given that they have a similar program with Peel Regional Police already," said Chabot.

"We are encouraging other businesses and agencies to come forward to take part in this program and help make our community a safer one."