From delivery bikers to pool parties: Safety rules for youngsters this holiday break

THE HOLIDAY season is in full swing, and while malls are buzzing with glittering displays and families are gathering for festive feasts, safety experts are reminding parents that the most precious gifts need a little extra protection.

With kids spending longer hours at home and navigating crowded shopping centres, the usual holiday cheer can quickly turn risky. From strangers at the gate to unsupervised water play, the season brings a host of hidden hazards that can be avoided with a few simple habits.

“Parents must reinforce basic safety rules with their children – especially when the house is full of guests and the streets are packed,” says Charnel Hattingh, head of marketing and communications at Fidelity Services Group.

Everyday safety, holiday style

As children spend more time at home, these simple safety habits can help keep the holidays calm, secure, and worry-free:

• Door‑and‑gate etiquette – Teach children never to open the door or gate for anyone they don’t know, even if the visitor claims urgency. A simple, “My parent can’t come to the door right now,” is enough.
• Stranger awareness – Kids should avoid lengthy conversations through windows or security gates and never reveal they’re home alone.
• Delivery safety – When a package arrives, a quick gate opening can become an invitation for a criminal. Encourage children to keep the gate closed and call an adult before accepting anything.
• Tech‑ready emergencies – Make sure they know how to activate the alarm system, use panic buttons, and where to find the emergency‑contact list (including 10111).

Beyond the front door, the home holds other seasonal dangers. A fire, a medical emergency, or a pool accident can happen in a blink. Fidelity’s advice is clear: equip your home with remote monitoring, secure access solutions, and functional fire detectors, and run through the routine with the kids and any caregivers.

Fun‑filled, safe‑filled activities

While safety is paramount, the holidays are also a chance to create lasting memories. A quick walk through a decorated mall can be a delightful outing if children stay alert – phones down, headphones off, and eyes on the surroundings. Group outings, especially when dropping off or picking up kids, reduce the chance of a child wandering off.

And when the festivities move to the backyard, water safety can’t be overstated. “Treat water like you treat traffic – never go near it without a grown‑up,” Hattingh advises, echoing the same caution parents use for crossing streets.

A final reminder

The sparkle of holiday lights, the scent of festive treats, and the joy of togetherness are all part of what makes this time of year special. By weaving safety into the everyday routine – a quick check of the gate, a reminder about strangers, a practised alarm drill – families can ensure that the only thing they need to worry about is which gift to unwrap next.

Stay safe, stay merry, and enjoy every moment of the season.