As a parent, you want to teach your kids how to be safe when you’re not around. You may have heard the saying, “safety first, is safety always” but as a parent, where do you even begin? Below are some safety tips to help teach your children how to respond or react in potentially risky situations.
1. It’s okay to say “No”
If your child feels uncomfortable or they are in a situation that they feel is not right, tell them it’s okay to say “no” to anyone, including a grownup. Encourage and allow your child autonomy over their body and choices and remind them to report any such incidents to you.
2. Help children to identify trusted adults
Talk openly to your child about whom they can trust and whom they can go to in an emergency – and how to get hold of you or your family members in such a situation. It’s a good idea to refer to specific characters such as a security officer at a shopping centre, a mother with children, or a teacher. Also, let your kids know that they should get in contact with a close relative or trusted friend if you can’t be reached.
“If approached by a stranger, teach your child not to engage in conversation regardless of how friendly they may seem.”
3. A buddy is best
When in public spaces, the more the merrier, especially when it comes to safety. Travelling in groups of familiar people is safer than on your own. Teach your child about safety in numbers and let them know it’s generally better to stick with a friend or a trusted adult than being alone.
4. Don’t take a lift from a stranger
This may seem like one of the first things you teach your kids, but with apps and evolving technology, this can be more complicated. Sure, teach your kids never to take a lift from a stranger but there are other scenarios to consider. If your child uses public transport, make sure they don’t travel alone. Or if they use e-hailing apps (such as Uber or Taxify), make sure they share their rides with you and identify the car and driver before they get in.
5. Beware the friendly stranger
If approached by a stranger, teach your child not to engage in conversation regardless of how friendly they may seem. Also, teach your kids never to let a stranger into your home. If they are unsure, they can contact a trusted adult who can advise or even help them out.
6. Teach your kids telephone skills
Teach them essential emergency numbers or make sure they always have sight of an emergency contact list. Also let them know that no matter what the situation (or time), they can always call you or a trusted adult and they will not be in trouble. If you have home insurance, you may also have access to home emergency assistance!
7. Teach your kids to identify risky situations and remove themselves
Sometimes, no matter how hard you try, a situation can become unsafe. Being able to detect when a scenario is becoming dangerous can make a huge difference. Teach your children:
- That no one has the right to hurt them.
- To trust their instincts. If they feel that a situation is not right, they mustn’t think twice about escaping that situation.
Teach your kids confidence, communication and situational savviness, and you can rest slightly easier knowing that your child is equipped with the tools to handle potentially dangerous situations.
Get an insurance quote today for the freedom to live your way, stress-free.
