Protecting the youth – school safety tips

School pick-up and drop-off can be chaotic – and vulnerable. As parents, guardians, and teachers, we all have a part to play in helping children stay out of harm’s way. Here are some practical tips to help keep school zones secure and your children or those under your care safe.

What schools can do

• Secure the perimeter: Schools should have a strong fence or wall, and controlled access through locked gates.
• Add surveillance: CCTV and an alarm system linked to armed response can help deter criminals. If possible, arrange for patrols during drop-off and pick-up times.
• Train staff: Teachers and staff should have basic crime prevention and emergency training – and access to panic buttons.

What parents and guardians can do

• Stay alert: Safety doesn’t stop at the school gate. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid distractions like phones or long chats with other parents.
• Lead by example: Follow school rules and safety procedures – your behaviour sets the tone for your child, and impatience could put others at risk.
• Keep school runs brief: Drive and park with awareness. If you need to wait in your car, keep doors locked and windows closed. Walk younger kids to the gate and make sure they’re safely inside before leaving. Don’t leave one child in the car while you drop off or pick up another.
• Protect personal info: Don’t display your child’s name on bags or clothing – it can be used to gain their trust.
• Have a safety plan: Teach your child about safety and how to respond to emergencies, who’s allowed to collect them, and what to do if you’re delayed or plans change unexpectedly. Consider using a family password that the person collecting them can share for added safety.
• Support the school community: Be proactive. Raise concerns, stay informed, and consider joining or starting a neighbourhood watch near the school.

What children should know

• Know how to react: All kids should be taught basic safety – how to get help and how to respond in emergencies.
• Stranger danger: Younger children must know not to talk to or go with strangers, even if they seem nice. Teach them it's okay to shout or resist if they feel unsafe.
• Memorise key details: Young kids should know their full name, a parent’s name, and at least one phone number. Older children should have emergency contact numbers at hand and know how to use them.
• Wait safely: Encourage kids to wait inside school grounds and avoid distractions like phones while they wait.
• Stay street smart: If they walk home, older kids should stick to familiar, busy routes and walk in groups if possible. They should not use their phone or headphones while they walk, and should always let someone know when they’ve arrived safely.

The care that we receive from people in our lives shapes who we are. Few things show our care more than making sure children feel – and stay – safe.