Crime Prevention : Safety Tips

Advice to children

The supreme law of South Africa, which is the Constitution, guarantees the rights of all children under the age of 18 years in Sough Africa, including children from other countries.

Children have the right to b cared for and feel safe.

Nonetheless children should follow basic safety rules so that they are less vulnerable to dangerous situations.

Always CHECK FIRST with your parents or the person in charge before ;you go anywhere or get into a car, even with someone you know.

Always CHECK FIRST with your parents or a trusted adults before you accept gifts and favours from anyone, especially from strangers.

Always TAKE A FRIEND with you when you go places, especially unknown places.

KNOW you address, telephone number and your parents' work telephone number as well as their cell phone numbers.

SAY NO to anyone who approaches you with wonderful job offers or who makes advances towards you that make you feel uncomfortable.

KNOW that you can TELL your parents or a trusted adult if you feel scared, uncomfortable or confused.

It OK to SAY NO and know that there will always be someone who can help

When you feel like running away from home...

There is a solution to every problem no matter how hopeless the situation may look. So, if you are thinking about running away, DON'T!

Running away from home can be a frightening experience - for you, your parents, friends and loved ones.

You may fall victim to alcohol abuse, drug abuse, crime, sexual exploitation, pornography and /or prostitution, rape, child abuse, assault and even kidnapping or abduction.

Instead of running away from home, do the following:

Keep an open line of communication and trust between you and your parents, friends, loved ones and teachers;

Try to resolve the problems that may prompt you to run away;

If you really cannot deal with family or personal problems effectively, seek the assistance of a trained professional.

When you go out on a date...

Do not allow anyone to touch you in a way that makes you feel uncomfortable - be firm and clear and say NO!

Do not leave a party or social event with someone you do not know or have just met - say NO!

Ask friends for help if someone ignores you when you say NO!

Remember: most rape victims know the rapist. You have the right to say NO!

Break the silence on sexual offences

Sexual offences involve sex without consent, unwanted sexual touching, or being forced to engage in humiliating sexual activity.

Nobody has the right to force you into sexual activity, no matter what your relationship with this person is. This means nobody can force you to have sex, or touch you in a sexual way without your consent, or force you to perform sexual activity you find unpleasant or humiliating. You have the right to say NO!

Report criminal activity to SAPS CRIME STOP 08600 10 111

In an EMERGENCY call 10 111

Childline 0800 05 55 55 renders a professional service.

Remember - You are STRONG, SMART and have the right to be SAFE.

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