CHILDREN'S SAFETY

Evening Post, Volume C, Issue 40, 17 February 1942, Page 6

CHILDREN'S SAFETY

PRECAUTIONS IN THE

SCHOOLS

The protection of school children in the event of an emergency arising during school hours has been a matter of deep concern, and as such it has been constantly exercising the attention of the authorities with a view to haVing the bestr possible plans laid for the safety of the children. Preliminary measures •, taken some time ago were to be supplemented by others designed.to make.the protective scheme complete, and some progress has been reported, with the prospect of an extensive precautionary plan taking shape shortly. Particular types of protective works ,in the general plan for the safety, of the school children have been suggested and considered. Their adoption is dependent upon location and other considerations. An all-important matter is the vulnerability of schools to attack, and it will be where the need is greatest that protective measures beyond the point of evacuating the children Will be a first concern in putting into operation the extended plans to. meet an emergency. It is fully recognised. that the location pfsome schools is more vulnerable than others. SHELTERS AND TRENCHES. Concern is expressed by one district warden of the E.P.S.—in Lower Hutt —over the lack .Of trenches or* air-raid shelters at the schools in a particular area iri which < large industries are situated. He states that he has carried his protest to various Government Departments, and considers that . the schools should be closed until such time as shelters are available, expressing the view also that the dispersal plan is not satisfactory. Far from being overlooked, the question of shelter trenches for schools is understood to have been given very serious consideration, and it is to be expected that action will not be long delayed in making provision for that type of protection, where necessary. Actually, a considerable amount of trench digging has been carried out near some schools. ' In having the children evacuated from schools considerable experience is being gained by practices, and reports indicate that a high standard of efficiency is being reached in speedy, organised exit from school buildings. Attention is also being given to such matters as first, aid and fire fighting.