Smiths Falls Police are urging families to make safety part of their summer plans as children spend more time outside and away from school routines.
Const. Sean Keogan says parents should talk with their children before the heat, long days and free time lead them toward higher-risk places or activities.
He says water safety needs special attention, whether children are near the Rideau, at a public pool, visiting a friend’s house or playing around a backyard pool.
Keogan says owners need to understand local rules, safety expectations and the risks for children and pets.
Police say adults should know where children are going, who they are with and whether proper supervision is in place when water is involved.
Keogan says families should also make helmets part of the summer routine for bikes, scooters and skateboards.
The Smiths Falls Police Service is again taking part in a positive ticketing campaign supported by Crime Stoppers and Smiths Falls Canadian Tire.
Keogan says the goal is to reward safe choices while helping prevent serious injuries.
Police say a few simple conversations at home can make a major difference once school is out and children are filling their summer days with friends, sports, swimming and neighbourhood adventures.
