Today and now is as good a time as any for all of those legitimately involved in the Carnival to focus on their security and to do so in line with the advise given out by the police and other agencies responsible for safeguarding the nation.
The police have given the assurance to be out in full force with approximately 6,000 officers very visible in all of the events from the pre-Carnival shows to the two days on the road and whatever follow up work is required to be done after.
It is well known and the police service and other arms of the security services are to be commended for the very efficient job they have over the last more than a decade to preserve the peace and ensure that all is well when Ash Wednesday morning arrives.
This year is not expected to be different with regard to the police and others providing security to law-abiding citizens, and guarding against those who would use every possible opportunity to capitalise on a situation.
But in addition to the security blanket provided by the police, individual responsibility for security is vital.
“The Police Service stands prepared and ready to provide enhanced safety and security to ensure that all masqueraders and spectators have an enjoyable and peaceful Carnival,” assures the Deputy Commissioner of Police Administration, Harold Phillip.
However, the message is clear, citizens and our visitors need to help themselves and do not take reckless chances with their safety and security.
To better achieve the objective of self-security, the police have advised that among other things, ostentatious displays of jewellery, carrying and displaying large amounts of cash, visible wallets and purses are really tempting fate and criminals.
It is good advice coming from the police for individuals to travel in the company of others, to avoid taking drinks from strangers hitch hiking rides and/or accepting lifts from unknown people.
At another level, the habit of drinking and driving and then depending on a miracle to reach home is a particularly foolish way for individuals and groups to conduct their lives during this and any period.
Carnival also presents a special challenge to parents and their young children to keep safe. Supervision of especially small children is absolutely necessary and cannot be left up to chance and the goodness of neighbour or stranger.
If parents intend to leave their children in the care of someone, then the Children’s Authority has warned that the caregiver must be truly trusted and tested individuals.
It is also not the wisest practice to leave small children in the care of older ones who may indeed wonder off to join in some aspect of the festival without being ready for the responsibility of taking care of a small child.
Leaving children locked into vehicles is about the worst practice that can be adopted, advises the Children’s Authority; parents and adults should take heed when they find the Carnival goings on absolutely irresistible.
And of course, serving alcoholic drinks to children will not only damage them in the present, but also in the future, now is not the time to start unwanted habits.
Enjoying the Carnival and all the activities which surround it is good practice but for it to be successful safe and secure practices are necessary.