Be proactive about child safety with KwaDukuza Saps’ new child identification booklet

KwaDukuza Saps have launched a child identification booklet that could help them find a missing child faster.

The police visited pre and primary schools around KwaDukuza on Monday to launch the booklet, in line with National Child Protection Week.

The booklet contains important information about a child, including specific details about their appearance.

There is a place to attach a recent photo, as well as an optional section for a hair sample, to identify your child’s hair type and colour.

KwaDukuza Saps spokesperson Priya Nunkumar said the booklet would be distributed across schools in KwaDukuza.

“The child identification booklet project was created to help parents in serious cases of emergencies, such as when a child is missing or has been kidnapped. Often parents are frantic and leave out important information or identification details which could assist in identifying the child.”

The booklet also contains information on how to inform the Saps if your child goes missing or has been kidnapped, reminds parents to always take note of their children’s clothing and accessories which can help to quickly locate the child.

Police advised all parents to take note of the following safety tips:

• Your child must know how to contact you, the Saps or another close relative in an emergency.

• Your child should never walk home from school by him/herself.

• Your child should always ask your permission before accepting gifts from strangers.

• You must know where your child is at all times. Know their friends and be clear with them about the places and homes they may visit.

• Never leave your child unattended in a vehicle, whether it is running or not.

• Listen to your child. Pay attention if they tell you they do not want to be with someone or go somewhere.

• Teach your child that they have the right to refuse any unwelcome, uncomfortable or confusing touch or actions by others and get out of those situations as quickly as possible.

• Be sensitive to any changes in your child’s behavior or attitude. Encourage open communication and learn how to be an active listener. If your children tell you about problems, try to stay calm, be reassuring, and non-judgmental. Work with them to get help to resolve the problem.

• Practise basic safety skills with your child.

KwaDukuza Saps station commander, Brigadier Sibongile Mhlongo said parents must explain the dangers to their children.

“We also encourage parents who have received the child identification booklet to complete the document and keep it safe so it can be of assistance to you, especially in cases of emergencies, and always remember that there is no waiting period to report a person missing,” said Mhlongo.