When visitors arrive to San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, during Easter break all they think about is the fun in the sun, beach, sea, the concerts, parties, water activities and relaxing vacation. What they do not see is all the preparations the town has made in order for them to have an enjoyable break.
Preparations for Easter/Spring break on the island are a massive undertaking as the San Pedro Town Council makes sure that everything is on point to ensure that our visitors have a fun and safe experience.
Mayor Daniel Guerrero meets with heads of departments
Just this week Mayor Daniel Guerrero, Deputy Mayor Gary Greif and Councilors: Ruben Gonzalez, Hector Alamilla and Gabriel Nuñez had a meeting with the San Pedro Traffic Department, San Pedro Police Department, San Pedro Fire Department, Belize Port Authority, Health Department, National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) and the Belize Coast Guard in preparations for the Easter weekend.
The San Pedro Town Council has to work closely with these various departments and organizations as there is an overwhelming influx of people to the island over the long holiday weekend.
The Police Department
- Actually has its entire force working during Easter
- Officers are stationed in key areas including parks, beaches and major events
- Patrols are boosted in north and south of the island, with substation booths set up to improve response time
- Conducts checks on establishments for proper liquor license extensions and implement “no liquor sales” on Good Friday
- Sets up communication with private boat owners to ensure added assistance in case of marine emergencies
Traffic Department
- Is in charge of closing Barrier Reef Drive to vehicular traffic during the weekend
- Conducts traffic check points to ensure drivers are following the traffic laws and have proper documentation
- Ensures steady traffic flow
Traffic Department’s Wardens and Fleet of Motorcycles and New Utility Cart
Fire Department
- Makes preparations to be fully operational and on call with both fire trucks
- Have back-up portable water pumps accessible if needed during emergencies
Belize Port Authority
- Monitors the water taxi terminals to ensure boats are not overloaded and that safety procedures are in place
Belize Coast Guard
- Increases marine patrols to ensure boaters keep safe and follow regulations
- Liaisons with Port Authority and Police Department
NEMO
- Prepares and activates any precautionary measures in case of any emergencies that present themselves
- Keeps alert and in constant contact with all departments
Health Department
- The Poly Clinic proceeds with having its 24-Hours Emergency unit open
- Liaisons with all private clinics
During the meeting, Mayor Daniel Guerrero took advantage of the opportunity of the presence of Superintendent Sandra Bodden to present the San Pedro Police Department with keys to a red pickup truck, handed down by the Traffic Department. A new utility golf cart was assigned to Traffic.
The San Pedro Town Council ensures that all entities are working cohesively; making sure the island is kept clean, safe and beautiful for all to enjoy. Mayor Daniel stressed to all public service workers to practice courtesy and good public relations when dealing with the public.
Good Friday is observed as a “dry Friday” with no sales of alcohol allowed from Holy Thursday at midnight to Saturday at 12:15a.m. Restaurants can sell alcoholic beverages to customers on Good Friday after 7p.m. and hotels will be allowed to sell alcohol to bona fide guests only.
Emergencies contact:
San Pedro Police Department – 206-2022
San Pedro Fire Department – 206-2372
Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic – 226-2536
Medical Emergencies – 660-2871
