JDF urges citizens to consider weather conditions before going on excursions
KINGSTON, Jamaica – Following Thursday night’s rescue of seven people who were marooned on an island in the middle of the Barnett River in Porto Bello, St James, the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) is urging the public to give consideration to weather systems in the vicinity of the country when planning their excursions.
In a release, the JDF said that while its members remain ready to provide assistance to our citizens whenever it is needed, individuals should take every precaution to ensure their safety.
The seven individuals rescued in Thursday night’s joint mission with the Jamaica Fire Brigade are said to be students of a local university who were apparently on an excursion when the river they were visiting became in spate due to heavy rains in other areas of the parish.
It took soldiers from The Jamaica Regiment in the parish followed by assistance from a helicopter from the JDF Air Wing to bring them to safety.
In the meantime the JDF is reminding the public of the numbers to contact in the event of an emergency. They are 876-322-6602 or 876-322-6599; and the JDF Tip Line – 876-837-8888; or the Jamaica Constabulary Force at 119.
