Norkem Park SAPS urges community to prioritise child safety
This follows a recent incident in Caledon Street where a child had been left alone in a parked car outside a local tuck shop.

Norkem Park SAPS has reminded the community of the critical importance of child safety following an incident involving a young child left unattended in a vehicle.
On Friday, November 11, officers responded to a report on Caledon Street where a child had been left alone in a parked car outside a local tuck shop.
“While the parent had only stepped inside briefly, the child awoke, exited the vehicle, and wandered off,” said Norkem Park SAPS spokesperson Warrant Officer Barbara-Anne Ferreira.
Thanks to swift action from local authorities and the Community Policing Forum (CPF), the child was located and safely returned to their parent.
However, the incident highlighted the potential dangers of leaving children unsupervised in vehicles.
Norkem Park SAPS management praised the CPF for their quick response and issued the following safety guidelines for parents and guardians:
- Never leave children unattended: Even a short absence can lead to serious risks, such as injury, abduction, or heat-related illnesses.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Stay vigilant, especially in busy areas like shops, parking lots, and streets.
- Engage your children: Involve children in errands where possible, teaching them about safety while keeping them close.
- Educate on dangers: Teach children about the risks of being in or near vehicles and stress the importance of staying with an adult.
- Report suspicious behaviour: If you see a child left unattended in a vehicle or notice suspicious activity, contact local authorities immediately.
The SAPS is committed to fostering a safe environment for all children and calls on the community to take proactive steps to protect them.
“Let’s work together to ensure the safety and well-being of our children,” said Ferreira.