HAMLET - SafetyPup is a child safety and drug education program designed to reach children in kindergarten through fifth grade.
The City of Hamlet Police Department is participating in the National Child Safety Council’s (NCSC) SafetyPup Program. The NCSC promotes the importance of staying safe and drug free, and will be providing child safety and drug prevention education materials for the children (preschool and older) as well as materials on ID theft, Internet safety, and safety for our senior citizens.
The NCSC is a non-profit federal tax exempt organization. They began the well-known missing children milk carton program in 1985 and their “SafetyPup” mascot has appeared on milk cartons with one-liners about safety and drug prevention.
Chief Scott Watters notes that “SafetyPup is the mascot for the Council and becomes a super hero and role model for the children.”
Most importantly, the NCSC will provide the HPD with various printed materials used in teaching young people. The materials include items addressing pedestrian safety; friendly police; general safety; Internet safety; beware and aware of dangerous people; and bullying. Also included are directives regarding good/bad guys; playground safety; right and wrong ways of touching; calling 9-1-1 in emergencies; smoking; and peer pressure mini-booklets.
The drug education program begins at the first grade level. The program also provides materials for parents to heighten involvement and re-enforce the messages at home with their children.
The Hamlet Police Department is currently mailing letters of request to area business, industrial, professional, military and civic organizations in the hopes of seeking their financial support for this most worthwhile program.
In appreciation for their help, the names of the sponsors will be placed on the work-study manuals that the children receive.
Chief Scott Waters noted that “there are other programs available to my department; however, the Council has the best materials, and the cost per child is the lowest we have found.”
Anyone who wants to help may send a contribution.
Please make checks payable to the National Child Safety Council and mail them to the attention of Chief Michael Scott Waters at the Hamlet Police Department, P.O Box 1299, Hamlet, NC 28345.
