Promoters have been told to ensure all their bases are covered before staging Crop Over events.
The advice came from Assistant Commissioner of Police Oral Williams as he addressed hundreds who turned out at Independence Square for the sixth annual Crop Over In The City concert on Thursday.
“For major events, the application should be in to the commissioner three months prior to the event. For the fringe events, the requests for services should be in at least three weeks prior. These include requests for the rental of crash barriers and other equipment. You should also ensure that you have your licences and permits before you stage these events,” Williams said.
He also cautioned Barbadians to be on their best behaviour during the festival.
“For your personal safety, avoid wearing jewellery that attracts attention; avoid flashing large sums of cash and leaving valuables in your vehicles. You ought to park in well-lit areas when attending events at night. Move in groups in unfamiliar territories. The Royal Barbados Police Force, like you, is desirous of having a safe, exciting and successful festival. The members of the force will be out in their numbers ensuring that all this happens. We are unable to do so on our own and want your full support and cooperation to reach that goal,” he said.
Williams also said the force was concerned about the rise in road accidents and urged partygoers not to drink and drive.
“We, in the Royal Barbados Police Force, are concerned about the number of motor accidents and road fatalities that have occurred so far this year and urge you not to drink and drive. This is the time for merry-making, but not letting down your guard in anyway. You should strive not to add to this list [of road accidents] for us to pass that of 2017. Let there be a designated driver who has taken no drug or alcohol. This is for your safety and others using the road,” he said. (DB)
