Police has set guidelines for parents who are taking children back to school starting today Monday 3rd February 2020.
Polly Namaye the Deputy Police spokesperson told journalists at Naguru police headquarters that the guidelines are meant to ensure safety of the children.
Surveillance and crime intelligence especially in and around Banking halls in Wakiso, Kampala and other places in the country has been enhanced to ensure that those who are paying school fees are able to pay safely, and have support in case of any disturbing events.
Namaye urged members of the public, especially parents and learners to; adhere to traffic rules and regulations especially for those driving. “Drivers are encouraged to look out for the safety of school going children and to be mindful of zebra crossings” Namaye said.
School children too have been reminded of safety precautions they should follow while walking by the roadside or crossing roads. Parents have been encouraged to escort their children to school especially on day one as some of the children are too young to move on their own and risk being kidnapped or even robbed of school fees and pocket money.
Namaye urged children not to trust strangers who approach them for favors or unsolicited friendliness and to report to the nearest police post in case they feel threatened by strangers.
“Schools are encouraged to abide by security guidelines, keep their security committees active and up to the task especially in preventing and combating accidents at schools as well as being able to respond timely in the event of an emergency by liaising with the nearest police station.
Namaye also said schools must ensure on premise security especially through installing CCTV Cameras, recommended perimeter walls and hiring professional security guards and ensuring good relations within the neighborhood.