Kamloops RCMP has shared some tips to help protect children after a schoolgirl reported a man following her home in the city.
The student said a suspicious man appeared to be pursuing her after she left school near the 900 block of Southill Street on Feb. 19 at about 3:20 pm.
She told police she ran back to the school, losing sight of the man.
The man was described as white, medium build, six feet tall, wearing a red jacket and green checkered cap and sporting a grey beard extending to his chest.
“This is a great example of a student who was alert, aware of her surroundings and did the right thing by going back to her school and finding a trusted adult to help,” said Cpl. Dana Napier.
“As the weather warms up and more kids start walking to and home from school, it’s a good time to review safety tips with them.”
The RCMP recommends the following:
Everyday Basics
Know your home address and landline phone number
Know how to contact your parents on their cell phones or at work
Know how and when to call 9-1-1 in an emergency from a phone
Establish a code word for your family. This should be used in emergencies to identify a ‘safe person’ other than their parent or caregiver
Play what if games with younger children to reinforce these safety messages
In the Community
Children and teens should play and walk to places with a buddy. If they become separated or lost, they should tell someone with a name tag (for eg a cashier or security guard) immediately
Avoid conversations with strangers. If someone you do not know asks you personal questions, such as: where do you live, do not answer. Run away or leave the situation immediately
It’s okay to say NO to adults who ask you to do something for them, such as: help them find a lost pet, join them in an activity or game, or give them directions
Never walk with or accept a ride, money or gifts from strangers or even someone you may know, without checking with your parents. Keep a safe distance (two arm lengths) from strangers and cars that approach you
If a person tries to grab you - scream loudly, make a lot of noise, and try to create a disturbance (eg knock things over, scatter belongings, kick wildly). Shout, “Help, this person is not my parent!” Run to a safe location like an open store
If a vehicle is involved, try to get the licence plate and a description of the stranger(s) and vehicle(s). Call 9-1-1 for help.
If you are taking a public bus, always sit near the bus driver
Reduce the use of headphones or use of electronic devices that can distract you from your surroundings when you are walking
