Safety first thanks to Crucial Crew

Nearly 2000 children from primary schools across the St Helens borough gathered at Langtree Park to learn the importance of personal safety and social responsibility.
Year 5 pupils joined St Helens Council’s eEnvironmental health, road safety and ranger teams, Merseyside Police and British Rail Police at the annual Crucial Crew event to act out a series of hazardous scenarios and emergency situations.
The aims of the campaign are to enable children to become more aware of personal safety, make a contribution to crime prevention, avoid being a victim of crime, know what to do in an emergency, foster good citizenship and actively contribute to their own health.
The council’s road safety team delivered information about being safe near and on roads; the environmental health team talked about hazards at home and staying safe online; whilst rangers discussed safety and awareness in parks and near water.
Merseyside Police explained to pupils how to make a 999 call and introduced them to the 101 number as a way of reporting crimes and other concerns that don’t require an emergency response. Meanwhile, Merseyside Fire and Rescue service delivered fire and firework safety messages.
St Helens Council’s cabinet member for green, smart and sustainable borough, said: “I always look forward to the Crucial Crew event as it’s a great way for young people to learn about safety in the community and becoming good citizens.
“I’d like to thank all the council and school staff, and partner
organisations involved in delivering this successful scheme and the children themselves for being so attentive and participating in the sessions.”