The October school holidays might be a very short one this year, but it still provides ample opportunity to remind your children about very important basic safety measures.
Teaching them these tips today could make a big difference to them growing up to become security and safety conscious adults later.
“It is in our nature to try and protect our children from any kind of harm that can befall them,” said Charnel Hattingh, head of marketing and communications at Fidelity ADT.
“It is impossible to always be with them and prevent any kind of bad things happening to them, no matter how much we would want to try.
“This is where the importance is shown of teaching them what to look out for, and how to try and avoid these things as far as possible.”
Hattingh believes parents should use these few days as a chance to run through important personal safety tips with their children, and it starts with knowing who to call if something goes wrong.
“Teach them how to remember the contact details for the people they can call to help them when they need someone,” she said.
“This includes your office number, the contact details for the local neighbourhood watch and the SAPS.”
Another important lesson to impart is the ability to always be alert to your surroundings.
“Talk to your children about always being attentive to what happens around them when they are out and about, and to take action if something feels wrong,” she added.
“For example, if they get the feeling that someone is following them then they should know how to contact an adult or a security officer to help them.
If your home has a security or alarm system installed, then you should definitely teach your children how to arm and disarm the system.
“Show them how to use the panic button in case of an emergency, and make sure your children understand the importance of always keeping the system armed even if they are at home.
“Also, remind your children to always keep the doors and windows locked and to never open the door for strangers.”
It is never too early to start having this kind of conversation with your children, she believes.
“The more you talk to them about how to be safe and the more you can reinforce the message, the better,” said Hattingh.
“By talking today, you can prepare them for a safer tomorrow.”
