Protecting tomorrow’s generation and keeping them safe from crime and criminals can start today. Youth Month and the June school holidays provide parents and caregivers with the perfect opportunity to focus on keeping their children safe and empowering them with the tools they need.
“Safety is a priority and must be top of mind for everyone, particularly teenagers and young adults who are especially vulnerable to crime. As adults we have a responsibility to equip them with the knowledge they need to identify risky situations and what to do when things go wrong,” says Charnel Hattingh, Group Head of Communications and Marketing at Fidelity Services Group.
“It is important to create an environment in which your children can speak freely about their fears and worries. They need to know that there are adults who care and who want the best for them and that there is always someone who will come to their aid in an emergency.”
Hattingh provides the following advice for Youth Month:
- Monitor your child or teenager’s social media feeds to protect them from predators and bullies.
- Educate your children about the dangers and risks associated with taking drugs.
- Stamp out the carrying of any type of weapon which could cause harm.
- Instil an ethos of zero tolerance to violence and drugs.
- Encourage free and open communication amongst your teenagers so they feel empowered to talk out on issues and report abuse.
“You can learn more from other available lists, such as tips that have been provided by the SAPS and by the international NPO Safe Kids. Speak to your kids today about a safer tomorrow.”
