Wed | Dec 25, 2024

Police ramp up efforts to ensure safety on roads and in other public spaces

Published:Tuesday | December 24, 2024 | 9:38 PM
Corporal Tyrone Walker (right) demonstrates the use of a breathalyser, donated by Red Stripe last year, on D&G Foundation Administrator Totlyn Brown-Robb, as Assistant Superintendent Dellon Lewis looks on. - Contributed photo

The Public Safety and Traffic Enforcement Branch (PSTEB) of the police force says it is ramping up efforts to ensure public safety and reduce road fatalities during the festive season and beyond.

It is doing this through increased patrols, public education campaigns and stricter enforcement of road traffic laws.

“We have been communicating through various channels, including our website, social media platforms, radio forums, and community meetings, to provide critical information on safety and security. This includes guidelines for staying safe in public spaces, particularly on roadways, and practising responsible behaviour during social and entertainment activities,” explained Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Gary McKenzie.

McKenzie commended the progress made so far in reducing road fatalities and serious crimes.

“We are seeing a 14 per cent decline in road fatalities this year compared to last year. This is encouraging, but that does not mean we are comfortable and satisfied. We are working even more feverishly and intensely to continue these positive trends,” he noted.

He was commenting on the donation of breathalysers by Red Stripe's charity, the D&G Foundation recently. He said the breathalysers have been deployed islandwide and are already proving effective in identifying drivers with alcohol levels above the legal limit.

"These instruments are aiding us in monitoring the use of alcohol when persons are driving and we have been able to test over 8,000 persons so far, ensuring safer roadways for all," McKenzie stated.

However, McKenzie urged citizens to take a responsible approach to drinking, even within allowable limits.

“We encourage groups to have a designated driver or someone responsible for monitoring behaviours. We want everyone to enjoy themselves, but it must be done responsibly,” he advised.

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