With the new school year starting on Wednesday, Villieria police have offered learners and parents tips to be safe.
Police spokesperson Captain Coba Brits provided the following safety tips:
“These tips are important to keep yourself and your belongings safe,” she said.
– Always observe your surroundings.
– Be wary of passers-by.
– Beware of suspicious people and vehicles.
– Make note of what you see as you might be needed to give a description to help the police locate suspects.
– Keep your handbag and other valuable close to you.
– Do not walk with your cell phone or tablet visible for all to see.
– Carry your wallet where it is not visible.
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– Do not put or leave handbags or other possessions in a supermarket trolley.
– Stay away from deserted or dark areas.
– As far as possible, leave valuable possessions at home.
– If you are attacked or robbed, do not offer resistance or look at the person directly – your life is worth more than money.
– Do not wander around after school. Go straight home.
– Do not talk to strangers.
– Know your name, address, and phone number(s).
– Learn how and when to call 10111.
– If you are scared of someone, run to safety.
– Learn the difference between an “okay” secret and a “not okay” secret and beware of an adult that asks you to keep a secret from parents.
– Have an emergency call list handy and know how and when to use it.
– Do not let anyone on the phone or at the door know that you are home alone.
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– If you ever get lost in a mall, ask the closest shop clerk for help and then stay where you are until your parents find you.
– Avoid shortcuts.
– If someone attempts to kidnap you scream, kick, bite and fight as hard as you can to get away. Never trust what the stranger tells you.
– Tell your parents or a trusted adult if someone is asking you to do something that makes you feel uncomfortable. Trust your instincts.
– Always ask your parents for permission before going on the Internet.
– Never talk to people online without your parent’s permission.
– Work hard to establish trust and communication with your children.
– Do not leave children unattended in a vehicle, whether the vehicle is running or not.
– Make sure you know how to find or contact your children at all times.
– Take an active role in your children’s activities.
– As tired as you may be, take the time to listen intently to your children when they tell you they had a bad dream. There could be a reason. Trust your instincts.
– Talk to your children about inappropriate incidents you hear on the news and get their perspective.
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