Expert advice on preventing ‘stranger danger’

In a world where the safety of children is not guaranteed, experts in the field provided insight on ‘stranger danger’.

Bhaai Cassim, the secretary for the Johannesburg Sub-District Community Police Board, emphasised the importance of preventative measures to protect children and vulnerable family members from potential dangers posed by strangers.

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Families can implement key strategies and safety tips to enhance their safety.

Preventative measures

To safeguard children and older family members from going missing, Cassim recommends the following actions:

Educate children: Teach children not to engage with strangers or accept gifts from them. Establish a designated meeting place and time in case of separation.

Emergency preparedness: Ensure children memorise a trusted phone number and carry a laminated card with your contact information.
Technology aids: Consider installing tracking devices on vehicles or using GPS-enabled bracelets. Applications such as Life360 can help families monitor each other’s movements.

Safety devices: Innovations such as clothes peg alarms are being introduced in public spaces to alert guardians if a child exits without permission.

Supervision: Always keep a close eye on children, especially those who are vulnerable or unable to fend for themselves. Verify their friends and their backgrounds to ensure they are in safe company. Cassim advises that children should know where to go for safety.

Public areas: Encourage children to stay in well-lit, crowded places if they feel threatened.

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Raising the alarm: If in danger, children should shout or make noise to attract attention. They should not hesitate to call for help from a trusted adult or the manager of a venue if necessary.

For personal protection, Cassim suggests considering non-lethal self-defence items:

Panic buttons: These can alert others in the vicinity.

Pepper spray and tasers: While these require careful handling, they can provide a means of defence.

Whistles and tactical flashlights: These can be used to signal for help or illuminate dark areas.

Tactical pens: These can serve dual purposes as writing instruments and self-defence tools.

Clive Maher of SCP Security stresses the importance of trusting one’s instincts. If a situation feels uncomfortable, it is crucial to seek help from a trusted adult. Children should be encouraged to communicate openly with their parents or guardians about any concerns, especially if someone asks them to keep secrets.

Maher concluded that fostering a culture of safety and awareness was essential for protecting children and vulnerable individuals from potential dangers. By implementing these strategies and maintaining open lines of communication, families can create a safer environment for their loved ones.

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