Here’s How to Stay Safe This Christmas

The festive days are fast approaching, and while Belizeans focus on tackling their last-minute preparations, police are warning that criminals are also on the move.

The latest crime reports include an early morning burglary at the Belize Bank branch in Dangriga Town today. Reports indicate that around 3.45 a.m., intruders forced entry through the back door and ransacked teller stations. No cash has been confirmed stolen at this time. Investigators are searching for a black Ford Escape seen speeding away from the scene.

In San Pedro, emergency responders were called to the newly opened Island Supermarket in the Tres Cocos area after a break-in and fire. The business had been operating for only three days. No injuries were reported, and the extent of the damage is still under investigation.

These incidents follow Thursday’s cold-blooded murders of Sarita Delivery truck drivers Raynard Garbutt and Alexander Crawford, who were robbed and shot on the Hummingbird Highway.

The recent surge in break-ins and violent attacks has forced authorities to remind the public that staying safe requires more than crime prevention; it includes home, road, and personal precautions.

One way employers can safeguard employees during deliveries is by reducing cash handling. “Electronic transactions are the safest, and especially so when you do not have a security mechanism in place,” Assistant Superintendent Stacy Smith said.

“We still ask that members of the public do their necessary due diligence in terms of taking care of themselves. This issue can only be addressed with a combination of police efforts as well as citizens playing their part in terms of sharing information and also those citizens being security conscious and alert when it is that they are travelling,” Smith added.

Below are other practical Christmas safety tips for you:

• Do not overload electrical outlets with Christmas lights and decorations, and turn them off when unattended.
• Never leave cooking unattended. Keep children away from stoves or hot surfaces, and ensure gas cylinders are secure.
• Be mindful of alcohol consumption.
• Do NOT drink and drive.
• Do NOT text and drive.
• Use secure parking when shopping.
• Limit the cash you carry on you and use electronic payments whenever possible.
• Lock and illuminate homes/businesses when leaving them unattended.
• Report any suspicious activity to police promptly.
• Avoid walking alone at night.
• Before travelling, check the weather and ensure your vehicle is road-ready.