Are you ready to make 2025 your safest year yet? The start of a new year is the perfect opportunity to refocus on safety—whether for your home, community, or yourself. On January 9th, 2025, we launched the Community Safety and Security Forum, focused on providing practical, actionable strategies under the theme “New Year, Safer You: Personal Safety and Security Strategies 2025.”
Centred on Area 3 police divisions—Clarendon, Manchester, and St Elizabeth—the forum was packed with expert insights, success stories, and tools you can use to navigate the year confidently.
Did you miss the live event? Don’t worry—you can still watch the replay here to get all the key takeaways.
Understanding Safety Challenges in Area 3
Safety begins with awareness, and ASP Melecia Morrison shared some hard truths about crime trends in Area 3 during 2024:
151 murders, 128 shootings, and 72 rapes were reported across the Clarendon, Manchester, and St Elizabeth police divisions.
Murder Causes: Nearly half stemmed from interpersonal conflicts (49%), followed by gang-related violence (25%) and crimes during robberies or other activities (10%).
Motor vehicle theft is a persistent issue, with vehicles like Probox, Nissan AD Wagon, and Toyota Axio frequently targeted.
These challenges highlight the urgent need for collective action to build safer communities.
Personal Safety and Security Strategies for a Safer 2025
The forum didn’t just discuss problems—it offered solutions. Here’s how you can protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community in 2025:
1. Personal Safety Tips
Stay alert in public spaces and avoid distractions like your phone or headphones.
Stick to well-lit, populated areas, and always trust your instincts.
Report suspicious activities to local authorities immediately.
2. Affordable Home Security Upgrades
Install sturdy locks, burglar bars, and outdoor lighting to deter intruders.
Position cameras to capture clear images of faces and licence plates. It’s not just about watching—it’s about seeing the details that matter.
Be mindful of what you share on social media. Don’t advertise valuables or your home’s layout.
3. Leveraging Technology for Safety
JamaicaEye: Join the growing network of over 700 public-private cameras that monitor and reduce crime. Register your cameras to support this impactful programme.
Protect electronic car keys with Faraday cages, which block signal skimming used by thieves.
4. Road Safety Starts with You
Motorcyclists: Wear helmets, maintain your bikes, and avoid reckless behaviours like weaving between vehicles.
Parents: Ensure young riders have proper licences and safety gear.
All road users: Slow down and prioritise safety over speed.
Community Collaboration Works
Success Stories Shared at the Forum
Project STAR in Clarendon: This initiative addresses youth unemployment and offers opportunities that steer young people away from crime. The programme has significantly reduced crime rates by targeting its root causes.
Neighbourhood Watches: Communities that organise themselves have recovered stolen vehicles, prevented crimes, and located missing persons. These stories are a testament to the power of teamwork and vigilance.
How You Can Help
Join or start a neighbourhood watch in your area.
Work with local police to identify issues and solutions specific to your community.
Upcoming Live Forums in January 2025
Stay connected and informed with our upcoming events:
Youth Empowerment Forum: Tuesday, 14th January
Community Corner: Thursday, 16th January
Child Rights Series: Tuesday, 21st January (in collaboration with the Early Childhood Commission)
Local Governance and Community Development: Thursday, 23rd January
Community Conversations: Tuesday, 28th January
Follow us on social media for updates, reminders, and links to join these sessions.
Take Action Today: Your Safety Starts Now
Making 2025 your safest year yet starts with simple steps:
Watch the replay to learn more about the strategies shared at the forum.
Apply what you’ve learned—from securing your home to protecting yourself on the go.
Get involved: Join local programmes, speak out against crime, and be a part of the solution.
Safety is everyone’s responsibility. By working together, we can make our homes, communities, and roads safer for all.
Together, we can create a safer Jamaica—one step at a time. Let’s make 2025 your safest year yet.
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