KINGSTON, Jamaica— The police are advising members of the public to adopt safe practices and be vigilant as they conduct business and traverse public places this Yuletide season.

The Corporate Communications Unit (CCU) of the constabulary said the increase in business and recreational activities may attract criminal elements who may seek to commit robberies and deceive unsuspecting patrons and consumers.

The police said it will continue to increase its presence on the roads across the island to minimise attacks by criminal elements and also provide a quick avenue for persons to report suspicious activities.

The police have issued a list of tips for keeping safe:

PREVENTING ROBBERIES

• Ensure that valuable personal possessions (eg cash and high-end electronic devices) are properly secured or concealed. Those who wish to conduct business with others involving large sums of cash should do so at a police station or another safe location.

• Avoid wearing excessive jewellery, particularly gold, especially when walking in areas with high pedestrian traffic.

• Always ensure that your house and car keys are easily accessible to minimise the time it takes to enter your homes and vehicles.

• Walk in well-lit areas and avoid walking alone. If you suspect that you are being followed, proceed to a crowded area, maintain vigilance, and seek assistance.

• Do not leave valuable items on motor vehicle seats or areas within the vehicle that make them visible to passers-by.

• Avoid taking large sums of money to/from the bank or directing employees to do so. Employ a reputable security service to handle deposits to financial institutions or seek the assistance of the police. Persons using Automated Teller Machines are urged to be vigilant and protect debit/credit card information.

• Travellers are also urged to be alert at the airport and be mindful of people who are not legitimately authorised to load and unload vehicles or provide transportation.

SAFETY AT HOME

• Where possible, invest in home safety features. These may include sturdy locks and doors or more advanced home security systems.

• Be careful who has access to your home. The police warned that crafty robbers sometimes pose as household employees such as gardeners and domestic helpers, then use the opportunity to steal items from the home.

• Since children might be home for the holidays, teach them not to speak to strangers and shout for help if they feel unsafe. Also teach them to never give out personal information and how to contact the police. Instead of leaving children at home, leave them in the care of trusted relatives or responsible caregivers.

TRANSPORTATION

• When taking public transportation, note the licence plate number and colour and make of the vehicle. Always let someone know when you board a taxi. Be wary of drivers who ask you to divert from planned routes.

• Taxi drivers are also being warned to be alert and look out for criminals who pose as genuine passengers, avoid carrying groups of men, and be wary of passengers who ask you to divert.

• Do not drink and drive – have a designated driver when you attend events in case you consume excessive alcohol. Also ensure vehicles are properly secured at these events.

• Obey all the road codes when travelling and comply with the instructions of the police.