Carnival Safety Tips PERSONAL SAFETY ADVISORY - TRINIDAD & TOBAGO - 2026 CARNIVAL PERIOD
AMCHAM T&T SECURITY COMMITTEE
LINKAGE Q4 (2025) - HSSE 360: INNOVATION FOR RESILIENCEAs Trinidad and Tobago enters the Carnival season, we encourage everyone to celebrate responsibly while making personal safety a top priority. Carnival brings large crowds, heightened excitement, late-night activities, and increased movement across the country. These conditions require greater awareness, preparation, and caution. This advisory outline practical safety measures to help reduce personal risk and ensure a safer Carnival experience for all. 1. Personal Awareness & Crowd Safety* Always remain aware of your surroundings, especially in large crowds, during J’ouvert, parades, fetes, and street celebrations. * Avoid confrontations, aggressive behavior, or heated exchanges. Walk away and seek assistance if tensions rise. * Be alert to sudden crowd movement, pushing, or panic. If a situation feels unsafe, exit the area immediately. * Identify nearby security officers, police, medical tents, and safe zones when you arrive at any event. 2. Protection of Valuables & Personal Property* Carry only essential items. Leave unnecessary valuables at home. * Avoid displaying large sums of cash, expensive jewelry, or high-value electronics. * Use anti-theft or cross-body bags that can be secured in front of you. * Keep mobile phones and wallets concealed when not in use. * Do not leave personal items unattended. 3. Movement, Companions & Accountability* Attend events with trusted friends or family whenever possible. * Establish clear meeting points and times in case anyone becomes separated. * Regularly check in with members of your group. * Avoid walking alone, particularly late at night or in unfamiliar areas. * Inform someone you trust of your plans, location, and expected return time. 4. Alcohol, Substances & Personal Conduct* Drink responsibly and know your personal limits. * Alternate alcoholic beverages with water to prevent dehydration. * Never accept drinks from strangers and do not leave drinks unattended. * Do not operate vehicles, machinery, or make major decisions while impaired. * Be cautious around individuals who appear heavily intoxicated or aggressive. 5. Health, Hydration & Environmental Risks* Stay hydrated, drink water frequently, even if you do not feel thirsty. * Wear light clothing, sunscreen, and protective headwear where possible. * Use comfortable footwear to reduce the risk of injury. * Take regular breaks and seek shade to prevent heat exhaustion. * If you experience dizziness, weakness, confusion, or severe fatigue, seek medical assistance immediately. 6. Transportation & Travel Safety* Plan transportation before attending events. * Use only licensed taxis, organized transport, or trusted drivers. * Avoid entering vehicles with strangers. * Share your live location with a trusted contact when traveling late. * If driving, secure your vehicle, park in well-lit areas, and never leave valuables in plain sight. 7. Emergency Preparedness* Save emergency contact numbers on your phone. * Know the location of nearby medical stations and police posts. * If an emergency occurs, remain calm, follow instructions from authorities, and assist others where safe to do so. * Report suspicious behavior, unattended packages, or criminal activity to security personnel or law enforcement immediately. 8. Respect for Authority & Public Order* Follow instructions from police officers, event security, and emergency responders. * Observe barricades, restricted areas, and official event guidelines. * Be patient during searches, traffic diversions, and crowd control measures. They are in place for public safety. Carnival is a celebration of culture, freedom, and national pride. A safe Carnival depends on personal responsibility, situational awareness, and mutual respect. By remaining vigilant and looking out for one another, we can all contribute to a joyful and incident-free season. The members of the AMCHAM T & T Security Committee encourage everyone to celebrate smart, move safely, and return home secure. We hope that you will enjoy our Carnival season and are pleased to share these personal safety tips.
