As the December holiday season gains momentum nationwide, Badisa warns that children could be exposed to increased safety risks this year. “The combination of longer days without supervision, changed routines, increased alcohol use and the general pressures of the festive season leads to a rise each year in incidents where children’s safety is put at risk,” says Karoline September, a social worker at Badisa.
Always know where your children are
September says the most important principle is simple: parents must know where their children are at all times. “When children move around without supervision, especially during the holidays, they are exposed to danger. As far as possible, try to keep children busy at home so that they don’t have to wander the streets. If you are a working parent, you should place your children in reliable care,” she explains.
Socialise responsibly
During the festive season, many families’ routines change. Parents are more social because of various gatherings they attend, which are sometimes accompanied by increased alcohol use. These factors can directly affect children’s safety. “Every year we see that children are more easily neglected or even abused when adults shift their attention to social activities. Parents must deal responsibly with alcohol abuse and act in their children’s best interests at all times,” September says.
According to September, a few recurring risks surface every holiday season. Children are sometimes left alone at home or even locked out, especially when parents are at other events. Alcohol abuse worsens these situations and increases the likelihood of neglect, abuse and sexual assault.
Keep water safety in mind
“Many children swim in dams and other water spots without supervision. This is a serious risk. Parents must make sure children are supervised, and that they don’t walk around alone or go swimming alone,” September warns. She also encourages parents to speak openly with children about dangers in the community and to set clear rules and boundaries for the holiday period.
Safety in public places
When families go to busy places such as beaches, shopping centres or festivals, preparation is essential. September recommends that parents talk to children beforehand and explain that they must stay close to their parents or family. Younger children should know their full names, as well as their parents’ names. “This helps a lot if a child gets lost. Parents can also make a simple wristband with contact details on it for the child to wear. If the child goes missing, someone can quickly contact the parents. Children should also know the emergency number 10111, and parents should show their children where they can go if they get lost, such as lifeguards on beaches, temporary police units, or the information desk in a shopping centre.”
Where to get help
“If a parent is worried that their child is unsafe or has gone missing, they must seek help immediately. Contact your local SAPS, your nearest Badisa office, or social services in your area,” September says.
Badisa encourages parents and caregivers to keep these emergency numbers close at hand and to share them with older children as well. Quick action can make a huge difference when a child goes missing, is injured, or is in danger.
Useful emergency numbers for the December holidays:
- Police emergency: 10111
- Childline South Africa (free counselling and child abuse helpline): 116
- General cellphone emergency number: 112
- GBV Call Centre (to report abuse): 0800 428 428
- Human trafficking helpline: 0800 222 777
- Ambulance / medical emergency: 10177
