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Keeping Our Communities Safe This Christmas: Event Readiness & Road Safety

Keeping Our Communities Safe This Christmas: Event Readiness & Road Safety Blog Cover Image
Highlights from the Final 2025 Community Safety & Security Forum

As the festive season approaches, safety remains a top priority. On December 12, 2025, Serenity Resource Connector wrapped up its final Community Safety and Security Forum for the year with a practical discussion on event preparedness and road safety during the Christmas holidays.


In collaboration with the Area 3 Police (Clarendon, Manchester & St. Elizabeth Divisions) and our valued sponsor National Self-Serve Wholesale, this forum offered clear guidance to help residents, event organisers and road users enjoy a safe and joyous season.


Featured Guests

  • DSP Owen Brown – St. Elizabeth Division, Area 3

  • SSP Winchester Watson – Public Safety & Traffic Enforcement Branch (PSTEB)


Event Safety: What You Need to Know Before Hosting

DSP Owen Brown outlined the key procedures and precautions for anyone planning a holiday event:


✅ Before You Promote Your Event

  • Apply early: Submit your event application to the Municipal Corporation (Parish Council) at least 21 days in advance.

  • Don’t invest prematurely: Avoid buying supplies (especially perishables) before your permit is approved.


📋 Requirements for Approval

  • JAMMS and JCAP Receipts: Proof of music copyright compliance.

  • JPS Bill or Approval: Legal power source for your event.

  • Location Inspection: Police will assess venue safety, proximity to hospitals, and noise impact on residents.

  • Community History: Venues with prior violence or repeated breaches of the Noise Abatement Act may be denied.

🕐 Event Cut-off Times:Weekdays: 12:00 a.m.Weekends: 2:00 a.m.

🚫 Common Mistakes That Lead to Rejection

  • Failing to apply on time

  • Ignoring previous violations

  • Hosting events in unsuitable or overcrowded spaces

  • Hosting multiple events in the same area, making it difficult for police to monitor effectively


Road Safety: A National Priority

SSP Winchester Watson shared critical insights into the road safety challenges during the holidays — especially concerning Jamaica’s most vulnerable groups:


🚨 Most At-Risk Groups

  • Motorcyclists: 107 deaths so far in 2025

  • Pedestrians: 66 fatalities to date


🏍️ Motorcyclist Safety Tips

  • Wear helmets, gloves, and reflective jackets

  • Ensure tyres, brakes and chains are road-ready

  • Avoid alcohol or drug use

  • Ensure pillion passengers also wear helmets


🚶 Pedestrian Safety Advice

  • Wear bright clothing at night

  • Use sidewalks or walk on the far left

  • Cross at designated points and make eye contact with drivers


⚠️ Environmental Hazards

  • SSP Watson highlighted issues like potholes, faded road markings and missing guardrails that make roads even more dangerous after recent hurricanes.

  • He called for greater urgency in road maintenance and infrastructure repairs.


The Role of Community Groups

Both speakers emphasized the role of Neighbourhood Watch Groups and Police Youth Clubs in promoting public safety:

“These groups are our extended hands. They know the community best and help us spot threats early.” – DSP Brown

Residents are encouraged to:

  • Report unsafe events

  • Share lessons from past experiences

  • Monitor vulnerable road users, especially children


Everyone Has a Role to Play

A community-centred approach means we each take responsibility for:


  • Driving safely

  • Respecting noise laws

  • Following permit conditions

  • Helping vulnerable neighbours during tough times

“If you’re given a permit, abide by the rules. Turn off the music when it’s time. Don't bring weapons into safe spaces. Do your part.” – DSP Brown

Sponsor Spotlight: National Self-Serve Wholesale

We extend heartfelt thanks to our long-standing sponsor, National Self-Serve Wholesale, for their steadfast support of the Community Safety and Security Forum.


Holiday Message from National Self-Serve Wholesale
“Community safety is not just a program – it’s a shared responsibility. We remain committed to investing in the well-being of the people we serve.”

📅 Customer Appreciation Day – December 19, 2025

You're invited to join National Self-Serve in May Pen, Clarendon, for a day of:

🎉 Giveaways

🎶 Entertainment

🎁 Surprises and gratitude


It’s their way of giving back to the community and celebrating another year of partnership and progress.


Watch the Full Replay

Relive the forum and share it with your family, friends and fellow residents. The information shared is essential for a safer Jamaica this Christmas.



Final Thoughts: The Spirit of Christmas

“Just to make one child smile — that’s enough. That’s what the spirit of Christmas is about.” – DSP Owen Brown
“I’ll feel good even if I don’t get a slice of cake — as long as there are no road fatalities this season.” – SSP Winchester Watson

Let's honour the season by being mindful, respectful, and united in our actions.


Together, we can make this a safe and meaningful Christmas for all.

 
 
 

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