Safety tips for children

Police are mandated to protect and serve all citizens, especially vulnerable members of society such as older persons, women and children.

Many children use public transport to and from school as well as lift clubs. Police ask those entrusted to transport children to abide by traffic laws, such as the speed limit and stop signs at all times, and that vehicles carrying children are safe and roadworthy.

Drivers who pick up learners from school must ensure that all children are accounted for to and from school.

Teach learners, especially younger ones, to wait at the designated pick-up point as soon as school ends and for older learners to make sure that they do.

According to police, there have been instances where children are found walking home alone, which is out of town, and brought to the police station to be assisted.

Children must be cautioned about purchasing snacks from hawkers outside school gates as well.

As further precautionary measures, police ask that the following tips be taken into consideration:

• Know your full name, your parents names, your address and phone number.

• Tell your parents about things that make you feel scared, uncomfortable, or sad.

• Know the difference between a good secret and a bad secret. A good secret is fun to keep, such as a surprise party. A bad secret feels bad to keep and makes you feel scared.

• Never tell strangers your name or where you live.

• Buddy system: use the buddy system and avoid walking or playing alone outside or in public places.

• Keep a safe distance (approximately three arm lengths) from strangers and strangers’ cars, even if a stranger seems friendly. Run in the opposite direction of the stranger’s car.

• It is okay to scream and fight. Do anything to get the stranger to let go. Screaming is the most important thing you can do, especially screaming ‘no’, ‘help’, or ‘danger’ to get an adult’s attention.

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