Keep children safe these holidays
For kids, the three-week long mid-year school holiday is a welcome break, but for many parents it is a stressful period of constantly wondering if their child is safe.
There are some basic and practical safety precautions parents can share with their children, regardless of whether they are left with a caregiver, domestic staff or stay at home by themselves.
“It is important that they know to always keep entry and exit doors locked, and that no one is to enter the home without your permission,” says Clive Humphrey, MD of ADT Security Central Region.
He adds that if you have a home security system installed, teach the children how to activate and de-activate it and how and when to use other security devices, like panic buttons.
Humphrey says it is a good idea to have a list of emergency contacts – including the 10111 number – near the telephone and to explain to children when and how it must be used.
The cold weather means that older children are often confined indoors and that boredom quickly sets in.
The usual solution is wanting to visit a friend who lives in the neighbourhood.
If you are not able to drop off your child or arrange a lift for them, Humphrey suggests that you walk the route with them before they have to do it on their own.
Explain that it is better to take a longer route along familiar streets, where there is more activity, than taking short-cuts across fields or through deserted areas or roads.
“Make sure that they know to call you to let you know when they are about to leave home and again once they have arrived at their friend’s home,” Humphrey says.
“If while walking they find themselves in an unfamiliar street, they should look out for a police or security officer and never talk to or take advice or a ride from a stranger.”
Shopping malls are far busier during the holidays and a popular hang-out for older kids.
If your child is going to a movie or to meet friends, they need to look after their belongings and to look out for each other.
“Busy malls present a prime opportunity for pick-pockets; teach your children to hold on tightly to their handbags, wallets and cellphones,” Humphrey advises.
“It is also important that, if they become separated from their friends, they head straight to the mall information desk or to security and try to track them down from there.” – @CarmenBoksburg
