Protect your children with these safety tips

Amanzimtoti SAPS reminds parents that vigilance is the key to protecting children and greater awareness of child safety can assist in preventing injuries and accidents.

“Although it’s not always easy for parents, children should never be left without adult supervision,” said Amanzimtoti SAPS communication officer, Captain Charlene van der Spuy.

“Parents should aim at making sure that children have fun activities to keep them entertained, so that they stay away from inappropriate behaviour that could lead to them being arrested or worse, being victims of crime.”

Here are some suggestions for keeping your children safe:

• Always keep a close eye on your child. Don’t let them wander off on their own or be without the supervision of a responsible adult.
• Never leave children in the care of an adult you don’t trust or know.
• Don’t leave children under the supervision of other children.
• Never leave children alone in a car.
• When travelling by car, make sure babies or young children are buckled up or in a car seat. Drive responsibly and do not place them on your lap in the front passenger seat.
• Learn first aid or at least learn CPR. It could save a life.
• Child-proof your home or the place you are staying by making sure that all dangerous substances and items are out of reach. Make sure that all electrical wiring is safe and swimming pools are sealed off with an SABS-approved safety fence or safety net, preferably both.
• Don’t drink too much or take drugs if you have children in your care.
• Make sure you know the whereabouts of your children if they have gone out.
• If your child is visiting friends during these holiday, keep in contact with the family your child is visiting.

• When going to the beach, make sure the child has their name, surname and contact number around their wrist in case the child gets lost. Teach them your telephone number and address.
• Explain to your children the safety of not talking to strangers or taking lifts with strangers.
• Also ensure your children know that they should not be inappropriately touched by anyone they know or do not know.
• Don’t leave your children alone at home without supervision.
• Be careful with candles burning in the house without your supervision.

• Make sure if children are going to the beach or pool that they only swim when there are lifeguards and in designated areas.
• Teach children to look after their belongings when going to the beach or pool and not to leave their belongings unsupervised.
• Teach your children the police number in case of emergency – 10111.