1- Do NOT drink and drive—When you get behind the wheel of a car drunk, you are risking your life and the lives of everyone else on the roadway, don’t do it. Police have also stepped up efforts to breathalyse errant drivers during the Carnival season and if you do not want to face a hefty fine and possibly a jail sentence, you should avoid drinking and driving at all costs. There are numerous safe alternatives, including hiring a driver, designating a driver who is not drinking or using one of the many ride-share apps that are available locally.
2- Do NOT wine without permission—It’s 2019 and no one, men included, is keen to be gyrated on by strangers. So while the revelry may be sweet, respect people’s rights and do not touch, jam, squeeze or grind without permission or you could face a $4,000 fine and up to two years in jail for common assault.
3-Do NOT pick up something/anything—Yes, we might all enjoy Mr Killa’s mega hit Run With It, but when the song comes blasting out of fete speakers and you’ve already had a few drinks, don’t do it. The T&T Police Service issued a stern warning earlier this week, advising citizens that they can be likely charged with larceny for “running with it”, so it’s best not to take the chance and end up before a magistrate because of it.
4- Do NOT go to events or play mas alone—With an ever-increasing murder rate and the TTPS on “red” alert because of it, partygoers and masqueraders should avoid going out to fetes or on the road alone. Criminals can pounce at any time and while being with friends may not guarantee your safety, being in a group may discourage potential attackers and keep you safe while you party.
5- Do NOT accept drinks from strangers—Date-rape drugs can easily be slipped into your drinks so always be aware, don’t accept drinks from strangers and use a covered mason jar if you can—the cap will ensure no one can slip anything into your glass without you noticing.
