School Watch is launched in Gwynedd
13/07/2012
A scheme which aims to encourage everyone to
keep an eagle eye on schools across north Wales and safe from crime
over the summer break has been launched in Gwynedd.
Pupils from Porthmadog and Bethesda gathered
at their local leisure centres this week to launch the School Watch
initiative. They had the opportunity to learn about the work of the
police and look at the equipment and vehicles used by officers of
the North Wales Fire and Rescue Service.
The pupils also had the opportunity to meet
with School Community Police Officers, Fire fighters, members of
the Community Safety Team, Arson Reduction Team and local Police
Community Support Officers.
School Watch aims to get parents, residents,
and teachers as well as the emergency services and the local
authorities working together to keep schools and their immediate
surrounding areas safe and free from crime and anti-social
behaviour.
Fire fighters returning from call outs will keep an eye on
school buildings while on their way back to their respective
stations as will the police helicopter.
Norman Hughes, Crime Reduction Officer for
Gwynedd urges members of the public to be vigilant and report any
suspicious behaviour around school premises. He said: “Schools have
a limited budget and valuable resources which should be used to
educate children are being diverted to combat theft and criminal
damage. School buildings can also become a target for graffiti and
vandalism during the long summer break. We rely on members of the
public for their support and encourage all to report incidents to
the police or anonymously via Crimestoppers.”
Kevin Jones, North Wales Fire and Rescue
Service’ Arson Reduction Manager said: "Historically, schools have
suffered from incidents such as deliberate fires and vandalism and
this partnership approach aims to tackle the problems before they
occur.”
Leaflets and posters are being distributed
throughout Gwynedd, reminding the public of the scheme which also
aims to help stamp out mindless acts which not only affects the
school, but the whole community.
Anyone who witnesses suspicious behaviour in
or around schools or at school buildings is urged to contact
North Wales Police. If you witness a crime in progress always dial
999. Non-emergency calls should be made to 101 or via Crimestoppers
Wales anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Campaign posters can be downloaded via this
page