Fire Prevention Week is October 3-9
This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety!” works to educate everyone about the different sounds that smoke and carbon monoxide alarms make. Knowing what to do when an alarm sounds will keep you and your family safe. When an alarm makes noises—a beeping sound or a chirping sound—you must take action.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Below is an example showing what various visual and audible indications mean:
Fire safety starts with you. The Bracebridge Fire Department can assist with any fire safety questions you may have. Visit them online at bracebridge.ca or call them at 705-645-8258.
Halloween safety
Let’s make sure everyone has a safe Halloween night. Below are a few tips:
- Wear costumes with light-coloured material and/or wear reflective gear.
- With COVID-19 concerns, be sure to clean hands frequently, wear a mask, and not to eat anything until back at home, or until hands have been cleaned.
If your child is going out without an adult:
- Make sure your child is in a group of at least three people.
- Give them a flashlight. A cell phone is also a good idea if you have one.
- Discuss in advance the route they should follow. Ask them to call you if they plan to go on a street that isn’t on the route.
- Set a curfew (and make sure they have a watch or phone with them).
Bus and pedestrian safety refresher
Help your child stay safe on their way to and from school by practising the rules of the road. Preventable injuries are most likely to happen getting on or off the bus and when crossing the street, so keep these tips in mind:
- Stand 10 big steps away from the road when waiting for the bus.
- Hold on to the handrail and don’t push while getting on and off the bus.
- Stay out of the danger zone around the bus. If you can touch the bus, you are too close!
- Always cross the road in front of the bus, ensuring the bus driver sees you.
- Look both ways before crossing the street. Try to cross the street at a crosswalk.
- When it is safe to do so, walk (do not run) across the street.
For more information visit the Student Safety – School Bus Ontario website.
You know best
As a parent or caregiver, you are the vital eyes and ears needed to figure out what your student’s needs are. You know that each child is unique and different and that abilities and personalities differ from child to child. You know when your student is experiencing ups and downs, and you ask yourself whether or not these are normal ups and downs associated with the pandemic, part of return-to-school jitters, or related to an emerging mental health concern. Check out Noticing Mental Health Concerns from School Mental Health Ontario to help consider whether your child needs help and how you might approach the conversation.
