The senior phase of Weltevreden Park Primary School had a serious talk about crime and safety from SAPS.
About 750 pupils from grades 4 to 7 were addressed about safety by Honeydew SAPS spokesperson Warrant Officer Karen Jacobs on 15 April. This is part of a continuous crime awareness campaign run by SAPS and the Honeydew CPF to combat crime in the area and to keep the community safe. There has been concern over children’s safety over the past few months and the partnership with Honeydew SAPS, the CPF and local schools, could help prevent children from being exposed to dangerous situations.
The pupils were warned that criminals come in all shapes, sizes and races. WO Jacobs explained how pupils should not walk home alone or walk through the greenbelts in the area, even if it is a short cut. “When you come home from school and you are stressed and tired, do not forget to lock the gate behind you,” added WO Jacobs.
WO Jacobs explained the children’s rights and responsibilities included the right to safety. “You have the right to safety but you have a responsibility to keep yourself safe and stay calm in dangerous situations.”
Welties pupils were warned that stealing is a serious crime. No matter how small the item is – from a pencil to a cellphone – no one has the right to take what is not theirs.
Acting principal, Karen Bergsma said, “We really appreciate the police taking time out of their busy schedules to visit our school.”
“Our children are constantly overwhelmed by negativity and it’s important that they know that it sometimes is reality,” added Bergsma.
“The information explained by the police has a much stronger message and gives our pupils the knowledge to keep themselves and others safe in a happy environment.”
Details: Weltevreden Park Primary School, 011 679 5625/6.
