Take precautions for a safe Christmas

Minister of National Security Jack Warner is urging members of the public to be vigilant and cautious as they go about their Christmas activities so as to minimize the risk of becoming victims of crime.

According to the Minister, “At Christmas time criminals tend to be on the lookout for persons who are vulnerable targets for robbery. They look for homes where the families have gone away for the holidays. They look for shoppers who are juggling multiple packages and shopping bags. They look for vehicles with purchases exposed on the back seat. They look for persons who are distracted as they supervise several children while shopping and therefore are not paying full attention to their surroundings.”

Warner advised that persons should employ some basic safety measures to reduce their exposure to crime and shared the following tips:

• Be vigilant at automated banking machines (ATMs). Try not to withdraw large sums of cash and do not expose cash when shopping
• Wallets should be carried in front pants pockets. Handbags and purses should be carried in the front pants pockets. Do not put them down or leave them unattended
• Multiple packages, attending to children and talking on the cell phone can distract you and make you vulnerable to pick-pockets and thieves. Try to be aware of your surroundings
• Avoid wearing expensive jewellery whilst shopping, especially in crowded shopping areas
• Do not leave shopping bags exposed on the back seat of your car. Try not to be seen coming and going to your parked car too frequently with shopping bags. If you are shopping alone, consider walking near other persons in the parking lot
• If you are away from home for an extended period, get automatic timer switches for your lights, secure the doors and windows and ask a friend or neighbor to check the house periodically. Don’t publicise that you will be away

Warner also advised that persons should check the safety information on Christmas trees, decorations and lights to avoid house fires which can be started by improper use of these items.

He added that measures have been put in place to increase the police presence and response, particularly in the shopping hubs. These measures include deployment of additional police officers and support from soldiers. 

One hundred and one new police vehicles were recently acquired and over 350 newly recruited Special Reserve Police Officers are out on duty. Just about one week ago a special anti-crime strategy was launched in the Capital City.

“With a team effort between the citizens and the protective services we can have a safer and happier Christmas for all,” Warner added.