With schools closed for the July/August vacation, the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service is reminding parents and guardians that child safety must remain a priority both at home and in the community.
As children spend more time at home, outdoors, and online during the school break, TTPS Media Ambassador Sergeant Devonn Jagroop says supervision, communication, and clear safety rules are critical.
He is warning parents to carefully consider who children are left with, especially when work or other commitments take them away from home. He says the law is clear.
“Any act that may wilfully expose a child to neglect, abandonment, assault, or cause the child to suffer any type of trauma or injury to their health is an offence. So, I want to implore that our parents be mindful. Please do not leave your children unattended, and don’t leave your children in the care of adults who also may cause them harm.”
In determining safe environments, Sergeant Jagroop said parents should ensure an older child is truly capable of caring for younger siblings. He also advised childproofing homes and keeping emergency contacts visible.
“Parents should really do an assessment of the older children because it’s more than just age, it’s about maturity. You have to ask yourself the question, is my son or my daughter really ready to take that responsibility to be home alone with the younger children?”
The TTPS is also advising parents to speak regularly with children about holiday safety, including where they are allowed to go, who they are with, and how to respond if they ever feel unsafe.
“So it’s not a one-day and stop thing, it’s something that is consistent. You have to always be talking to your children, reminding them of some of the dangers that exist, so that ultimately safety and security is of paramount importance.”
Parents are also being urged to discuss online safety with their children, particularly the risks associated with gaming platforms and online chats. Sergeant Jagroop said the aim is to keep children safe during the vacation period through parental vigilance and guidance.