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Hurricane Melissa, which came on shore in Jamaica this week, created extensive damage to properties, businesses and infrastructure.

Packing winds of up to 185 miles per hour, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Centre, Hurricane Melissa has been described as “The Storm of the Century”. It is the strongest ever cyclone on record to hit Jamaica.

More than 500,000 people are still without electricity, and in many parts of the country, people are also without water and internet service. The western end of the country has been decimated. People’s homes have been destroyed, and roads are impassable. 

St Elizabeth and Treasure Beach’s economic drivers of agriculture, fishing and tourism have been wiped out for now and that will also impact the national economy.

 In  1977, a 24-year-old Kenny Benjamin founded Guardsman, a security company that went on to become a leader in the field, not just in Jamaica but in other Caribbean islands.

The year 1988 saw Gilbert, a Category 4 hurricane, ravaging Jamaica, taking the country years to recover. During that tumultuous time for Jamaica, the Guardsman Group played a crucial role in maintaining order and protecting property amidst widespread devastation and a breakdown of normal service.

Since its formation, Guardsman has grown and prospered with many subsidiaries to its operations. It would have seen and gone to work in a number of climatic episodes endured by Jamaica, refining tried and tested solutions. Its considerable experience can be called upon in this time of need for Jamaica.

When a hurricane passes, the immediate focus is often on rescuing those in danger and restoring essential services. However, the storm’s aftermath can leave communities and businesses exposed to a range of security risks that often go unnoticed. Experts at Guardsman Group emphasise that being aware of these vulnerabilities and taking proactive measures can make the difference between a safe recovery and further loss.

Increased Risk of Burglary and Theft

Damaged or abandoned properties become magnets for opportunistic criminals. With power outages and structural damage, homes and businesses may appear unguarded. Security professionals advise immediate property assessments and temporary reinforcement to reduce the likelihood of break-ins.

Black River in St. Elizabeth has seen widespread looting and break-ins in the aftermath of Hurricane Melliss, a with law and order absent. There is insufficient police personnel to deal with the crisis and the worst of human nature is there for all to see.

Business owners have seen their enterprises plundered, and there is no protection for them. They will pay a heavy price for the lack of protection at a time when they were left to the mercy of desperate people who are seizing upon opportunities to enrich themselves in the absence of law enforcement authority. It is here that Guardsman, with its expertise, can play a role.

Disruption of Security Systems

Many security measures, such as alarms, CCTV cameras, and access control systems, depend on electricity and internet connectivity. Hurricanes often compromise these systems, leaving premises vulnerable. Ensuring backup power, alternative monitoring methods, and rapid repair protocols can mitigate this risk.

Looting and Opportunistic Crime

In the chaotic days following a storm, looting can be a significant concern. Communities with delayed response from law enforcement or damaged infrastructure are particularly at risk. Guardsman experts recommend coordinated patrols, vigilant monitoring, and community watch programs to maintain safety.

Cybersecurity Threats

It’s not just physical security that suffers after a storm. Businesses relying on digital infrastructure face risks when servers, online portals, or remote monitoring systems are offline. Cybersecurity preparedness, including offline backups and emergency protocols, should be part of post-storm planning.

Natural Hazards Compounding Security Challenges

Fallen trees, flooding, debris, and damaged perimeters create additional challenges for both residents and security personnel. These hazards can obscure property lines, create blind spots, and hinder emergency response. A careful assessment of the landscape post-storm is crucial.

Proactive Measures for Protection and Recovery

• Conduct rapid property and perimeter assessments to identify vulnerabilities.
• Engage professional security services for patrols and rapid response.
• Reinforce emergency communication channels and backup systems.
• Educate residents and businesses on temporary security measures until full recovery is possible.

Building Community Resilience

Ultimately, preparedness is about more than securing property; it’s about building resilience. Guardsman Group advocates for strong collaboration between private security, local authorities, and communities to ensure recovery is safe, organised, and sustainable. Communities that understand potential post-storm vulnerabilities and act swiftly are better equipped to protect their people, assets, and livelihoods.