Maldives Police Service (MPS) has urged the public to secure their property and valuables before going on holiday.
In a press statement, MPS advised citizens to turn off the air conditioning and fans and make sure the doors and windows are locked before leaving their island. The police service also advised them to choose a responsible person to inspect the house once a day and keep it well-lit at night.
Additionally, MPS stated that keeping electronics and valuables such as laptops, iPads, tablets, jewelry and other items locked away is an important step to ensure the security of their property. The police service also highlighted the importance of securing their homes from fire incidents by repairing electronics and gas leaks, removing gas regulators, and checking for risk of electric shortages. It further advised the public to turn off switches of unused electrical items and shutting off the valves.
For the holidays, MPS and the Coastguard have launched a special operation to ensure the safety of the large number of vessels that would be traveling at sea. The police service has also reminded travelers and boat captains to check their safety standards and to ensure that the life jackets, fire extinguishers, first-aid boxes, as well as the drainage, navigation, and communication equipment are up to date and in good working order.
MPS further warned that vessels smaller than nine metres are not allowed to travel to areas given yellow, orange, and red alerts by the Maldives Meteorological Service. It also urged the public to be mindful of their own safety when swimming.