The downtown core and waterfront are expected to be bustling with thousands of people this weekend, and the police are preparing for a significant presence to ensure public safety.
Officers will be deployed across key locations, including the entertainment district's restaurants and bars, to manage crowds, traffic, and respond quickly in case of an incident.
Inspector Joe Matys, of 14 Division, emphasized that the police are prepared and urging attendees to do their part in keeping the celebration safe.
The steelband competition and grand parade, two of the main events, will begin on Friday night and Saturday morning, respectively, with police presence expected to increase in the evenings.
Inspector Singh noted that the police presence throughout the downtown core and along the lake will be noticeable, with two drones deployed along the parade route and major areas of the city to monitor crowd dynamics and public safety.
Singh stressed that it is a shared responsibility between the police, community partners, and residents to ensure a safe and enjoyable celebration.
He urged attendees to approach police officers if they notice anything suspicious, as the police will have a significant footprint in the area.
