Mérida already has a new security system thanks to the Safe Alert strategy, which seeks to provide support to the vulnerable population in 10 public spaces in the first square of the city.
Mayor Cecilia Patrón Laviada started the program, which includes the installation of duly marked emergency buttons so that women, elderly people, or people with disabilities can request help in case of emergency.
The first button is located in the San Cristóbal Park, and the installation of 9 more is planned before the month of March. These buttons will allow users to alert authorities in the event of theft, harassment, assault, or medical emergencies, and will have surveillance cameras and a speaker system to establish communication with the user.
“Mérida is the second city in North America with the greatest security among its inhabitants and the safest capital in Mexico. However, this forces us to continue working tirelessly to guarantee the protection of everyone,” he noted.
The program consists of the installation of emergency buttons connected directly to the Municipal Police. When a person presses the button, an operator will establish immediate communication through a speaker, remain in contact with the affected person, and send police support immediately.
The mayor explained that the choice of San Cristóbal as the first implementation point responds to the incidence of citizen reports in the area.
“It is the thirteenth point with the highest number of reports in the city, so we decided to start here. We want those who pass through this space to feel protected and safe,” she emphasized.
The “Safe Alert” strategy also includes coordination with other entities, such as the Women’s Institute and the DIF management, to provide care and support to victims. With this initiative, the city of Mérida seeks to improve the security and quality of life of its inhabitants.
In addition to San Cristóbal, the other Safe Alert points will be located in La Mejorada, San Juan, and the market area, covering areas with a high influx of people and with specific security needs.
Before the end of the event, a live test of the system’s operation was carried out, with the participation of a volunteer citizen. The activation of the button made it possible to demonstrate the immediate response capacity of the municipal security personnel, who will respond to these alerts 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
TYT Newsroom
