OPP Constable Randi Crawford joined Dan and Marcie in the June edition of Tip Tuesday.
OXFORD COUNTY - It's the last Tuesday of the month, so OPP Constable Randi Crawford was back in the Heart FM studio for the June edition of Tip Tuesday.
The topics discussed on the show today included what to do if you spot someone getting into a vehicle with open alcohol and the difference between bullying and criminal harassment. With the last day of school coming up on Thursday, Crawford also shared some summer safety advice.
You can find a breakdown of the entire Tip Tuesday interview below:
1) What do you do if you witness someone getting into the drivers seat of a vehicle with open alcohol?
Constable Crawford says you want to get ahold of police right away.
"If you think that someone is drinking alcohol, you don't know if they are already intoxicated. So if they are getting into a vehicle, whether it's open alcohol and they haven't had any yet, they are still at risk of getting impaired and driving. So in that case, I would say call 911."
She says you could also call the OPP or Woodstock Police non-emergency line, and follow the instructions to speak with someone.
No matter what number you end up calling, Crawford says you should provide as much information about the vehicle as possible to make it easier for police to track it down. This includes the make, model, the licence plate, and the direction it was heading.
It's also a good idea to provide a description of the driver and any passengers in the vehicle.
2) What is the difference between bullying and harassment? How do you prevent it from happening and how do you tell if it's in the early stages?
Crawford started her answer by breaking down the difference between the two.
"Bullying is the repetitive and intentional hurting of another individual whether it's physical, emotional, financial, or cyber bullying. When it becomes criminal harassment is when that person reasonably fears for their safety."
She also adds that bullying happens at all ages, not just to kids. However, as soon as someone starts punching, kicking or physically hurting someone intentionally, it's technically assault even if it's happening on a playground.
Crawford says the OPP works alongside local schools, health boards, and other community partners to make sure that not only the victim receives assistance, but also the bully, because there is usually a reason why this person is acting out in this manner.
In terms of the signs, Crawford says a victim could be withdrawn or acting out if they are subject to bullying. She recommends visiting the Bullying Canada website for more information.
3) With the last day of the school year coming up on Thursday, what are some summer safety tips families should keep in mind?
Crawford says having a safety plan is the key to success.
"That covers every single topic you can think of that happens for kids and for adults. For example, if kids are going to stay home by themselves because their parents feel they are mature and capable, then we want to have some safety plans for them. What are the rules, consequences and maybe some rewards."
One thing that's nice about living in 2025, is that it's easy for people to purchase and install their own in-home camera system. This is a great way for parents to monitor what's going on at home while they're at work.
It's important that your child has access to a phone, whether it's a cellphone or a landline, so they have a way of getting ahold of you or emergency services if need be.
Crawford is also reminding kids to be safe on the streets during their summer adventures. Drivers out there also need to prepare for more kids playing outside. Traffic safety is everyone's responsibility, especially during the summer break.
The next Tip Tuesday is scheduled for Tuesday, July 29th and you can submit a question online here.
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