WITH learners making their way back to schools yesterday (January 14) for the start of the new academic year, many parents can feel anxious and worried for their children’s safety, especially for the children who travel to school and back by themselves. The Amanzimtoti Police Station have shared some tips to ensure the safety of the young learners.

Also read: In Pics: All smiles for the little ones on their first day of school

Tips for the children:

It is of the utmost important that parents share and teach their children the following tips to maximise their safety as they return to school.

• Children must always walk to or from school with a friend or friends.
• If your child walks alone, it is a good idea to ask a teacher or other parents if they know of other children from the area who do the same.
• Stick to streets you know and never take shortcuts through unfamiliar or quiet areas.
• If you are picked up at school, always wait inside the grounds for your lift to arrive, do not leave the premises to go and look for them in the street.
• Remember, your parents would never send someone you do not know to fetch you.
• Never get into a stranger’s car even if they claim that someone you love is hurt and that they are supposed to pick you up.
• If a stranger approaches you, do not talk to them no matter how friendly they may seem.
• If someone tries to grab you, fight, kick and scream that they are not your mom or dad.
• In some cases, children have to see themselves to and from school and keep occupied until mom and dad return home in the evening. It is extremely important that the kids know not to let anyone into the house without your permission.
• If you are going to be late, let your child know as soon as possible and give them an idea of when they can expect you to be home.
• Draw up a list of important numbers, this list must include emergency services, parent’s work and cell phone numbers.
• Save it on your child’s cellphone, and stick it on or near the landline.
• It is also important to explain to them when these should be used.
• If you have a home alarm system, let everyone in the household, children included, know how to use it and when and how to use the panic buttons.

Amanzimtoti Police Station’s communications officer Captain Charlene van der Spuy said that the South African Police Service are committed to creating safe and conducive environments for all people.

Contact:

In case of an emergency you can contact the following numbers:

• Crime Stop: 08600 10111
• Emergency Line: 10111
• Child Line: 116

For more Southlands Sun news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.