As schools close and the holidays officially begin, we can be assured that large groups of children on our streets, in our shopping malls and in other public areas is going to be a familiar sight.
During this period, police respond to many cases of children being involved in crimes such as shoplifting. Children left idle will resort to unsavoury activities to keep themselves entertained.
The SAPS therefore appeal to parents to ensure that they know of their children’s movements at all times, and that minors be left in the care of a responsible adult.
In addition, children are advised to take care of themselves during this period, as a lot of youngsters are involved in incidents such as drownings because of irresponsible behaviour. Children are advised to never go anywhere alone, and take note of some precautions they should put into practice.
Make sure you are in a group with friends or with an adult you personally know and whom your parents trust. Never go anywhere without telling your parents where you are going. Make sure your parents have the phone numbers of the friends you are with. Always let your parents know if your plans change. Learn your parents’ telephone numbers off by heart, as well as your mom’s and dad’s name and surname. Also learn an aunt’s or uncle’s number in case you can’t get hold of your parents.
Don’t go to places you don’t know. If you get lost in a shopping centre (or anywhere else), go to the security desk immediately and ask for help. Don’t try to look for your parents yourself… get help immediately. Don’t go with people you don’t trust. Don’t go to public toilets on your own. Go with friends or with your parents Don’t take sweets, money, gifts or cool drinks – don’t take anything – from strangers.
Don’t accept lifts from strangers. Never ever get into a stranger’s car or go anywhere with them. If someone is following you, run and scream or make loud noises to attract attention – rather be safe than sorry. Write your name on the inside of your clothes and your bags, as well as your parents’ phone numbers – never on the outside where strangers can see it.
Don’t play in the streets alone. It is easy for a stranger to stop next to you, grab you and pull you into their car. Remember the buddy system – always take a friend / buddy with you wherever you go. Hold onto your friend – this way, you can help each other when you are in trouble.
The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Mmamonnye Ngobeni, appeals to parents not to abandon children in shopping malls, on beaches, etc. “As the SAPS, we have to deal with highly distressed children that are found on our beaches and in shopping malls. If you lose your child, it is your responsibility to immediately look for them and not wait for the authorities to find and return your child to you. This can be very scary, especially for a young child, and it is very traumatic,” she said.
Emergency numbers to remember:
- POLICE – 10111
- SAPS CRIME STOP – 08600-10111
- CHILD LINE – 08000-55555
