Despite the recent declaration of a state of emergency by the Prime Minister of Jamaica following the escalation of gang violence and killings on the island, a travel expert warns that Canadian travelers may not be able to make cancellation claims on travel insurance documents.

According to travel advice and notifications issued by the Government of Canada, travelers entering Jamaica should "exercise a high degree of caution due to the high level of violent crime."

The state of emergency also applies to areas in the capital Kingston as well as six parishes out of 14 in Jamaica. This includes popular tourist spots in Montego Bay.

The Associated Press reported that the island, with a population of 2.8 million, has recorded 1,421 murders so far this year. At the same time last year, it reported 1,375 murders, according to the Jamaica Police Force.

Also, Martin Firestone, head of Travel Secure Insurance, warned that travel insurance policies do not necessarily take into account cancellations or medical concerns when attributed to what constitutes "known reasons."

Firestone remains uncertain whether most cancellation policies will cover claims given that media coverage has already informed Canadians of the rise in crime and violence in Jamaica.

Similarly, Firestone warned that "fear of riots" is not a legitimate reason to file a cancellation claim, despite the imminent risks spread throughout Jamaica.