In Pembroke, Ontario, certain parking spots now display a new insignia.
The areas outside the Pembroke OPP station at 77 International Dr. that display the handshake symbol are designed to serve as community safety zones for online transactions.
If you purchase something online and need to meet someone in person to pay for it or pick it up, there are locations you may use to guarantee everyone’s safety, according to the Upper Ottawa Valley OPP.
According to an OPP news release, “Project Safe Trade aims to establish a ‘community safety zone’ at an OPP detachment parking lot to facilitate online property transactions.” “The idea behind establishing a ‘community safety zone’ is to shift online transactions from private parking lots, homes, and other locations to public spaces.”
There is no need for appointments; the secure trading locations will be open at all times.

“The busy holiday season is approaching, making this the perfect time for the local launch of Project Safe Trade.” According to Steph Neufeld, commander of the Upper Ottawa Valley OPP detachment, “online property transactions are on the rise, and the UOV OPP is pleased to be initiating a community safety initiative aimed at decreasing offences related to online marketplace transactions.” “Project Safe Trade and other collaborative methods can lessen victimization and harm in our communities.”
Const. Mike Mahon told CTV News that the areas also offer a means of assisting in preventing the potential of becoming a victim of fraud.
“If it seems too good to be true, it probably is,” goes the saying. Particularly if you’re asking that they meet here and they’re really hesitant, then you should be concerned,” he stated.
According to the OPP, police will not function as witnesses, mediators, or providers of documents in relation to transactions. However, if an officer is called, they will come and only get involved if the transaction turns into a criminal case
My MIL Left the House Every Thursday & Returned Smelling Terribly — I Went Pale When I Discovered Why

This is a compelling and well-layered story! The contrast between Olive’s quiet life as a designer and the hidden chaos her mother-in-law introduces makes for an intriguing narrative arc. Olive’s patience wears thin as her suspicions grow, and her decision to investigate unveils a secret life that feels almost cinematic, with the reveal in a hidden casino adding a dark twist to Cordelia’s character.
Olive’s journey—from suspicion to decisive action with the police and eventually a conditional forgiveness—provides a realistic portrayal of the emotional toll such situations can have on family dynamics. The ending, where Olive and Xander offer Cordelia one last chance, strikes a hopeful yet cautious tone, suggesting a fragile possibility for redemption.
If you’d like to add anything more, such as further development of the family’s perspective or even expanding Olive’s inner thoughts, it could bring even more depth to the story!
Leave a Reply