Crop Over Festival Safety Tips: Preventing Drink Spiking, Drinking and Driving, and Vehicle Security

As the Crop Over Festival approaches its climax, partygoers are being warned against driving and drinking excessive amounts of alcohol.

They are also being encouraged to be vigilant to prevent their beverages from being spiked and to take the necessary precautions to secure their vehicles and homes.

Crime Prevention Officer with the Barbados Police Service, Inspector Roger Babb, also provided a list of dos and don’ts that could ensure people continue to enjoy the festivities.

“I urge all persons attending the Crop Over activities to consider using the following tips that can help you stay in control while enjoying yourselves. Drinking alcohol impairs your ability to make good decisions,” Babb said.

“Not drinking alcohol is an option, so do not feel pressured to drink, it is okay to say ‘no’.

“If you drink, do so in moderation. Do not drink and drive. Drinking and driving may result in accidents that can be fatal. Always have a sober designated driver.”

For those who intended to drink, he also urged them to be vigilant about how the drinks were being prepared.

“Do not let anyone bring a drink for you. To avoid having your drinks spiked, buy your own drinks and watch the bartender make or open them. Never mix alcohol with other drugs.

“If you think your drink was tampered with let someone know and seek medical attention,” he added.

Babb also offered some safety tips to motorists who are attending events.

During this week there will be scores of events leading up to the Grand Kadooment, the official end of the festival.

He stressed that unattended vehicles should be parked in lighted areas, locked with alarm systems and valuables should be removed.

“Be aware of your surroundings when parking your vehicle. If you are uncomfortable or see someone loitering in the area park somewhere else. Do not leave valuables in your vehicle, especially

if they can be seen from outside the vehicle.

“Park in safe well-lit places/areas where possible. Close and lock all windows and doors when you park,” he said.

Babb also warned against leaving keys in vehicles.

“Most vehicle thefts are crimes of opportunity. Never leave your vehicle engine turned on and unattended.

“Double-check to ensure the windows and doors are secured before leaving your vehicle unattended. Utilise steering wheel locks if you have them,” he said.

If your vehicle is stolen he said to call 211 and provide the year, make, model and colour of the car; licence plate number, vehicle engine and chassis and inform your insurance company within 24 hours.

He gave similar tips to householders to help them limit the opportunities for criminals to thrive.

“Install good locks on your doors and windows and use them. Check to make sure that you have not left the key in the door.

“Do not leave your house keys hidden outside your home under the door mat and do not leave your doors and windows open if no one is at home,” he said.

He also suggested that people avoid keeping large sums of money in and around their homes, keep the vegetation around their homes to a minimum of three feet in height, ensure there is adequate lighting on the exterior and install CCTV cameras.

Babb noted that some individuals could become complacent because they believed they could not become victims of crime. He, however, said being proactive was key. (TG)