Parents warned of road, river, sea and online risks during holidays

Parents and guardians have been urged to closely supervise children during the school holidays, particularly around roads, rivers and the sea amid unpredictable and windy weather conditions.

Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran issued the call as school holidays began today, urging families to put children’s safety first while they take part in activities and spend more time at home.

“Please keep a close eye on our children. Let us remind them to stay away from roads and rivers without adult supervision,” she said.

Ms Kiran said coastal and maritime communities should take extra precautions by ensuring children were supervised when playing in the ocean.

She also urged parents, guardians, teachers and children to remain vigilant during sporting activities being held around the country.

“It is wonderful to see so many of our children growing and thriving through the sporting events happening around the country,” she said.

Ms Kiran also warned parents about risks children could face online during the holidays.

She encouraged families to use parental controls on electronic devices to limit children’s exposure to harmful online content.

Assemblies of God Fiji general secretary Reverend Filikesa Koroivueta said families had an important role in protecting and guiding children.

He urged families to strengthen their relationships, uphold family values and spend meaningful time together during the school break.

“We need to keep watch over our children. That's what I would love to share to our families and people,” he said.

Reverend Koroivueta said the family was the foundation of society and encouraged parents to rebuild strong family connections.

“Let’s rebuild our families or build our families, instil some family values and have some valuable family time,” he said.