SAFETY MESSAGE AND CRIME PREVENTION TIPS FOR THE PROTECTION OF OUR CHILDREN

Protecting children from criminal activities and incidents is of paramount importance and hence protecting them MUST be a shared responsibility between the police, parents and the community. Of recent, the Namibian Police Force is inundated with worrisome and concerning reports whereby children are harmed, abused, raped, neglected and have become victims of crimes committed by those who are supposed to create safer and conducive environments for them.

Children are also committing suicide, some dies on the road, while some from water and fire incidences. On the other hand, young boys have resorted to criminal activities; exposed to theft, knife stabbings as well as illicit drug and alcohol use while in some cases they are made merchants of drug crimes.

It is against this background that the Namibian Police Force want to reiterate on the safety message and share tips for children safety, moreover intensify parental guidance and support for the children as we are preparing for the imminent school holidays and Festive season period. First of all, teach children about personal boundaries and the importance of saying “no” to touch on private parts or situations that make them uncomfortable. Encourage them to
speak up and confide in a trusted adult if something does not feel right.

Teach children how to recognize emergency situations and what to do in case of emergencies. Teach them about the police function (eg. maintenance of law and order), and important phone numbers (10111), emergency services such as ambulance and trusted contacts, this will aid them in reporting matters. Educate children about the dangers of the use of drugs and alcohol. Teach them to never attempt nor to accept delivering of parcels in the streets or neighborhood. To avoid interacting with strangers at all times, and report any suspicious or inappropriate activity.

Educate children about the potential dangers of the internet. Teach them to never share personal information online, avoid interacting with strangers, and report any suspicious or inappropriate content to a trusted adult, to child-line lifeline or the Police. Teach children about road safety rules, such as looking both ways before crossing the street, using designated crosswalks not to jaywalk, not to cross roads at low-light areas or night. Deter them from hitch-hiking and encourage them to walk or cross roads in groups and when it is safe. Additionally, deter them from playing on roads especially boys and soccer.

Teach children about strangers and the difference between a safe and unsafe stranger. Teach them to engage a teacher/organizer when his/her transport is delayed or to call the parent, never to approach unknown vehicles. Encourage them to never go anywhere with a stranger, accept gifts or treats. Educate children about the importance of water safety. Teach them to swim under adult supervision, and avoid unsupervised access to pools, ocean, rivers, or other bodies of water. Also teach children about fire safety measures, never play with matches or lighters
and deter others from throwing cigarette buds anywhere and anyhow as it ignite the grass,
causing damages.

We must remember that open communication and building a trusting relationship with children is crucial for their safety. Children are vulnerable and often unable to defend themselves therefore it is crucial that we ensure their safety for their physical and emotional well-being. Early intervention in protecting children from criminal and untoward activities can help prevent them from becoming involved in criminal behavior as they grow older.

In lieu of the above, the Namibian Police Force would like to emphasize on the safety of our children which is a responsibility that must be taken seriously by individuals, families, and communities. Let us work together to create a safe and nurturing environment for our children to prosper. We call upon members of the public to report any ill-treatment of children and involvement of children in criminal activities.