Lee advises residents to be vigilant of children’s safety

By Olivia Bradbury / Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Harbour Grace councillor Lee Rogers is advising residents to keep an eye out for the town’s children, not only when it comes to driving, but also in the wake of recent claims on social media about strangers stopping young folks in neighboring towns.

Rogers made the remarks at council’s April 14 public meeting.

Rogers noted that with the weather gradually growing milder, more children are out and about, and so drivers should be vigilant.

“Please adhere to the speed limit,” he said. “Kids will be kids.”

But the councillor’s second plea was more ominous. Rogers said concerns have recently been spreading across social media about reports of strangers stopping children, asking them to get into their vehicles. There have been Facebook posts about such incidents in various communities, some near Harbour Grace. According to Rogers, the children involved in the reported incidents were, fortunately, wise enough to remove themselves from the situation.

“I’m sure everybody has seen the past couple of days the stuff going around on social media,” said Rogers. “Kids being stopped in local areas, neighbouring towns.” 

Rogers implored parents to have a talk with their kids and emphasize that they should not go anywhere with strangers.

“Younger kids shouldn’t be on the road by themselves,” Rogers added. “We can have them in pairs or buddy up. Know where your kids are all the time, more or less. And just have a chat.” 

Rogers advised people to contact the RCMP if they witness anything suspicious.