KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Police are urging members of the public to be mindful of road and water safety practices during the 

According to the constabulary’s Corporate Communications Unit, chief among these is to always have a designated driver, as the tendency during the holiday season is to consume alcohol.

The Jamaica Constabulary Force says that besides being illegal in most instances, the consumption of alcoholic drinks, even in moderation, is extremely debilitating for drivers, and many crashes have resulted from the poor judgement and decreased response times that alcohol use causes.

In addition, the police are urging people to refrain from driving when extremely tired or in a state of mind that makes absolute focus on the task at hand impossible.

The police are reminding drivers to:

1) Obey the speed limit.

2) Ensure all passengers are properly secured in the motor vehicle using seatbelts, car seats or booster seats.

3) Ensure vehicles are roadworthy.

A special appeal is also being made to pedestrians:

1) Make sure you can be easily seen at all times, especially at nights when light-coloured clothes are recommended.

2) Cross the road at the safest place possible; use a pedestrian crossing whenever possible

3) As much as possible, choose routes that are well-lit by streetlights for maximum visibility.

The police are also advising that beach goers: 

1) Do not leave small children unattended.

2) Educate yourself and your family about what to do if in trouble.

3) Do not swim or enter the water at all if the beach is closed.

4)    Get a friend to swim with you.

5)      Don’t drink alcohol and swim.