As in any foreign country, should any emergency situation arise, especially at the domestic level, it is advised to immediately contact your government's embassy or consulate. Governments usually advise travellers staying in the country for an extended period of time to notify their embassy or consulate so they can be contacted in the case of emergency.

Note that homosexuality is against the law & considered completely unacceptable in Jamaica, and can lead to violence. Do not display affection to people of the same sex in public - Jamaica is a nation notorious for its persistent intolerance of homosexuality and homosexuals, gay bashings are not uncommon and victims would be met with indifference by the authorities. It can also lead to punishment by law. Gay and Lesbian tourists are best advised to avoid Jamaica as a vacation destination.

Marijuana, although cheap, plentiful and powerful, is illegal on the island.

If in need of police, dial 119 - just don't expect them to show up on the spot.

Also, it is best to avoid certain parts of the island at night. Rural areas of the island are generally safe, but inner-city parts of the island such as Spainish Town and some neighborhoods in Kingston (Trench Town, etc.) should be avoided even during the day.