Their Safety First: New winter campaign launched in Sharjah focusing on children

Sharjah: The Child Safety Department (CSD) in Sharjah has launched its Winter Campaign, “Their Safety First,” coinciding with its participation in the 13th Dawahi Festival at Al Qarayen Park 4.

Running until February 19, 2025, the campaign is designed to raise awareness among families and children about essential safety measures for outdoor and public activities during the winter season.

With over 20 initiatives planned, the campaign covers crucial topics such as bicycle and scooter safety, camping precautions, and guidelines for various winter activities. It also addresses significant risks, including falls from balconies, while providing families with the knowledge and tools needed to ensure their children have a safe and enjoyable winter.

Building on its presence at Dawahi 13, the campaign extends across several key locations in Sharjah, including the Desert Police Park, Al Hamriya Children’s Festival 13, major shopping malls, and Mleiha National Park. In addition, the CSD team will engage with schools, hospitals, and universities to broaden the campaign’s reach and maximise its impact.

A major highlight of the campaign is the “Golden Rules for Bicycle Riding” workshop, aimed at children and adolescents. Led by professional trainers, this workshop offers hands-on experience with CSD’s eight-step guide, interactive Q&A sessions, and live cycling demonstrations. Participants will also have the chance to win prizes.

Other initiatives include awareness sessions for domestic workers, educational videos on safe versus unsafe cycling practices, and field visits to distribute materials on medication safety and accident prevention.

Hanadi Al Yafei, Director-General of the Child Safety Department, emphasised the importance of heightened safety awareness during the winter season — a time when families in the UAE enjoy outdoor activities due to the cooler weather.

She highlighted common risks, such as cycling against traffic, navigating roundabouts, or using high-speed roads, and stressed the critical need for safety adherence and parental supervision. “Our campaigns are designed to instill a culture of safety, enabling children and families to enjoy outdoor activities while prioritising their well-being,” said Al Yafei.

“By fostering a sense of collective responsibility among parents, organisations, and the community, we are laying the foundation for a safer future where children can thrive.”

Al Yafei also noted the crucial role outdoor activities play in promoting both physical and mental health in children, emphasising that the campaign’s goal is not to limit these activities but to ensure they are safe and beneficial for all involved.

The campaign benefits from strategic partnerships with several leading organisations, including the Sharjah Police General Directorate, Sharjah Municipality, the Social Services Department, the Districts and Villages Affairs Department, the Sharjah Civil Defence Authority, and the Prevention and Safety Authority. These collaborations are essential in creating a safer environment for families and advancing community-wide safety efforts.