School holidays are a time for learners and teachers to take a break from school activities and to spend time with their family and friends. Parents and caregivers are urged to monitor their children’s daily actions and online activities. For the safety and well-being of children, it is advised that cellphone and internet time is limited and monitored.

Being aware of your child’s online activity helps prevent exposure to child predators and cyberbullying. When out and about or visiting malls, it is important that a child knows to always inform parents and guardians when they are approached by strangers and that they should never keep such encounters a secret. When visiting public places, it is a good idea to agree on a clear meeting point if separated.

If your child goes missing, act immediately. Visit your nearest police station to open a case as there is no waiting period to report a missing person. You can also call Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or contact Missing Children South Africa on 072 647 7464.

In case of natural disasters or flooding, the following tips might prove useful: assemble a grab-and-go kit and keep it in a designated, easily accessible location. The kit should contain important documents such as IDs, passports and birth certificates; a cellphone charger; essential medication; credit cards and money; and a first aid kit. When heavy rains occur, it is important to stay informed and heed warnings from reliable media and social media sources such as the South African Weather Services or your local municipality. It is also wise to store a supply of drinking water. If you live in a flood-prone area or are camping in a low-lying area, get to higher ground immediately. If told to evacuate by authorities, please do so immediately and disconnect utilities and appliances. Avoid areas, roads, and passes that are subject to sudden flooding, as well as damaged live electrical infrastructure. Avoid walking or driving through flooded roads and never attempt to walk, swim or drive through rapidly flowing water. Avoid contact with flood water as it can be mixed with sewerage, oil, fuel, or dangerous chemicals.