CHARITY ISSUES BACK TO SCHOOL SAFETY ADVICE

New school uniforms, stationery sets, sports kits and text books are just some of the things on parents’ minds in the lead up to the new school term.

But with the start of term also come safety issues, and national charity, the Children’s Safety Education Foundation (CSEF) is urging parents to talk to their children about staying safe.

“At this time of year, children are often too excited about the start of the new term and often forget basic precautions when it comes to road awareness, and keeping themselves and their possessions safe,” said John McNamee, CEO of CSEF.

“Children are also particularly vulnerable to being victims of robbery at the start of term, as they are often equipped with new gadgets, such as mobile phones, MP3 players and perhaps even the latest trainers as part of their P.E. kits.”

Top tips that parents can give to children to ensure they stay safe when walking to or from school, includes keeping mobile phones, MP3 players and money hidden and out of sight; keeping to main paths and routes to school; being aware of surroundings and keeping bags closed, with valuables out of easy reach.

If they are using their bike to travel to school, they should always make sure that it is locked, even if it is being left for a few minutes. It should be secured to an immovable object such as a bike rack or ground anchor, with a good quality lock such as a steel D-shaped lock.

John continues: “Robbery offenders do prey on the vulnerable, and will see pupils walking to or from school with all their gadgets on show, as easy targets.

“Our neighbourhood officers and PCSOs work closely with local schools in the community to make sure that pupils are aware of the very simple advice they can follow to avoid becoming victims of crime. We also have regular patrols in key areas and work alongside our partner agencies to help keep children safe when they’re out and about.

“It is important that young people follow tips such as staying with friends, carrying personal attack alarms, and making sure that someone knows where they are and what time they should be home. We also encourage pupils to register their valuables on the national property register – immobilise.com, so if they are stolen they can be easily traced and returned.”

Road Safety is another issue at this time of year, whether cycling or walking to school. If cycling, parents should ensure their child has a good quality helmet, that fits properly and that children are aware of how to cycle properly on the road. It’s a good idea to invest in a cycle training course for them.

When walking, tell them that they should walk facing the traffic, always walk on the pavement and cross at safe places, preferably at pelican crossings or with a lollipop lady or man.

According to CSEF, parents should also be on the look out for back to school stress and should make a special effort to spend time with their children in the first few weeks of term, especially if they are starting secondary, or a new school.

A key worry for CSEF, and for parents is bullying and the national charity produces a range of information on helping people to spot the signs. Signs include: a sudden dislike of certain places or journeys; nightmares; becoming withdrawn or anxious; feeling ill at certain times of the week; losing money or valuable possessions or unexplained bruises and cuts.

CSEF works alongside schools, emergency services and other organisations across the UK to help deliver vital safety information to children.