Keep your little ones safe this, Black Friday and festive season
Tips from police to keep your kids safe in crowded malls and public spaces.
As Black Friday and the foot traffic festive season sales kick into high gear, local parents are urged to be extra cautious when taking their children shopping.
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), crowded stores and malls can be a recipe for disaster, especially when it comes to child safety.
In a recent post to Facebook, SAPS offered some valuable tips for parents to ensure their children’s safety while out and about this festive season.
“Talk to your children in a positive manner about ‘what if’ safety scenarios before going shopping or to a public event,” the post read.
“Teach your child to always check with you first before they separate from you.”
https://x.com/SAPoliceService/status/1859861315897971168
#sapsHINT #BlackFriday #MallSafety
Be vigilant when in congested shops or shopping aisles where you cannot even walk properly, that is where you will find criminals pick pocketing.Avoid displaying valuables where criminals can see them.
Keep your handbag with you, keep it… pic.twitter.com/tgQbsIp0Vd
— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) November 22, 2024
According to police, parents should always supervise their children in public spaces and accompany young children to the restroom.
SAPS also advised parents to designate a meeting spot in case their child gets lost, such as the sales counter or mall information booth.
Most importantly, parents are urged to never leave their children alone in public places, such as video arcades, movie theatres or play areas.
“A trip to the shopping mall with children can be overwhelming, and with the blink of an eye, it is possible for children to get lost in a maze of shops and crowds of people,” the post warned.
Police also urged parents to teach their kids and show them the trusted mall security guards or store employees in case they get separated or if they need help.
“Write down your mobile number on the top of their hand or a wristband,” said the post.
“Keep up-to-date photos and accurate descriptions of your child, should they get separated from you, as it can assist mall security and police in locating your child speedily.”
#sapsHINT #MallSafety – School holidays are often filled with shopping and socializing at the mall, a favorite gathering spot for teens. Safety in numbers is always important; make sure your child stays with the group and uses the buddy system if they need to use the restroom.… pic.twitter.com/KHh2y5P0l3
— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) October 2, 2023
Do you have more information about the story?
Please send us an email to bennittb@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.
For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites: Rekord East
For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram
