Cape Town - Private emergency medical care service, ER24, has urged parents and children preparing for the school year to keep safe and focus on their health.
ER24 spokesperson Chitra Bodasing warned children to be “vigilant at all times” and released the following tips.
* “If you walk to and back home from school, try to do so in a group.
* “Never walk through secluded areas.
* “If you see someone behaving suspiciously, get away from the person immediately and report the incident.
* “Ensure that valuables such as cellphones and other electronic devices are not visible.
* “Know the rules of the road. Do not jaywalk. Cross roads where you are allowed to but ensure that it is safe to do so,” she said.
She pointed out that children should never accept or ask a stranger for a lift: “For those who are dropped off and picked up from school, parents or guardians or others responsible for doing so, should ensure this is done safely.
“If the area around the school is busy, be patient. Be careful of other vehicles in the area and children who are walking past.”
Bodasing said children must be appropriately restrained in a vehicle when travelling: “Parents or guardians should ensure that lift clubs or any other form of transport that is organised for children is safe. Know who is transporting the child.
“Children who feel unsafe in these vehicles should report it to their parents or guardians.
“Always keep a list of emergency numbers to contact in case it is needed.”
She said that parents should make healthier choices when packing their children’s lunchboxes: “Lead a balanced lifestyle. A balanced lifestyle means healthy eating, getting enough rest and sleep, exercise and reducing stress.
“A healthy eating plan can prevent certain illnesses as well as help improve your energy.”
She advised that children who are victims of bullying or any other form of abuse at home or school should report it or “seek the help of a trusted person such as a parent or guardian, counsellor, teacher or principal”.
Cape Argus