Don’t drop your guard these holidays

School holidays are well under way and child safety is in the spotlight once again, after a Richards Bay teen was stabbed in a home invasion last week and two toddlers succumbed to a house fire in Mandlazini.

SAPS urges parents to ensure their children’s safety with the following tips:

• Make sure there is a trustworthy adult to supervise the children when you are not at home
• Never leave children alone and assume they are safe because the house is locked
• Do not allow children to wander off on their own
• Do not leave heaters on, even though the switch might be off. A child might accidentally switch it on
• Do not leave candles or matches within reach of children
• Keep medication out of reach of children
• Make sure your phone is on and your child is able to reach you
• Never leave your children alone in a vehicle.

When out and about with your children at a mall or other public place, teach them that if they ever become separated from you, they should look for mall security or the closest shop assistant for help.

With older children, establish the ‘check first’ rule; they must always check first with you before going anywhere in a public place, including another store or even the bathroom.

Agree on a ‘meeting place’ ahead of time, in case you become separated.

Make sure your child knows your cellphone number.

HAVE YOUR SAY