Stay safe, stay vigilant amid rising crime

A friendly reminder from the Friends of Democracy is that as crime continues to rise across this nation, for your own safety, don’t rely on the government as they have not shown that they can provide the safety and security our citizens deserve.

We write our names on history’s page with great expectations and one of our greatest expectations is our freedom and safety. High crime affects residents, businesses and international perception. Barbados relies heavily on tourism and foreign investment, and we cannot allow crime to hurt our economy when investors pull out or tourists change their minds about us. We must show that we care about our country not just with words but in practice. While we await meaningful action, the Friends of Democracy is highlighting practical steps to protect our people.

Until proper measures are implemented, every citizen must stay alert and take responsibility for their personal safety. Crime is still a major concern and in turn we must conduct ourselves with caution and vigilance.

Safety tips for citizens

– Be cautious on the veranda at night! As petty theft and violent crime increase, criminals have grown bolder, sometimes targeting people right at home and in broad daylight. Avoid lingering on your veranda too late at night. Ensure your property is well-lit, install motion sensor lights if possible, and always lock doors and gates.

– Stay alert when getting off buses. Public transport areas have become hotspots for pickpocketing and robberies. When getting off a bus, be aware of your surroundings. Avoid wearing headphones or being distracted by your phone. Travel in groups when possible and stay in well-lit, populated areas. Stop giving every and anyone directions to your home.

– Use ATMs safely. Avoid using ATMs late at night or in secluded areas. If you must withdraw money, use machines in secure, well-lit locations such as inside banks or grocery stores. Cover the keypad while entering your PIN and be on the lookout for suspicious individuals.

– Guard against carjackings. Carjackings are on the rise, particularly during evening hours. Always keep your doors locked and windows up, especially when stopped at traffic lights or driveways. Be wary of strangers flagging you down or stopping you without merit and trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, drive to a police station or public area immediately.

– Protect the elderly living alone. Criminals often target the elderly, believing them to be vulnerable. Families or close friends are encouraged to check in regularly with older relatives. Ensure their homes are secured with proper locks and that emergency numbers are within easy reach. If possible, install a security system or camera.

It is the duty of government to ensure that citizens can walk freely without fear, whether it’s to collect their pension, return home from work, or simply enjoy their porch on a warm night. We are demanding real action: increased policing and proper payment for them, modern crime-fighting technology that does not infringe the privacy rights of our people. More importantly, we need effective border control to stop the inflow of crime at its source.

Until change comes, the best defence we have is each other. Look out for your neighbours. Report suspicious activity. Be aware, be prepared, and never take your safety for granted. As a nation, we must remain united in the face of rising crime. Do not aid or abet people to break the law.

To the government: the time for empty assurances is over. Our people are entitled to safety, dignity, and meaningful action. We offer our sincere condolences to all the family and loved ones of those who have lost their lives to crime and violence. Enough is enough!

Karina Goodridge is an attorney-at-law and chairman of Friends of Democracy.

The post Stay safe, stay vigilant amid rising crime appeared first on Barbados Today.

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