OPP REPORT ANSWERS RUMOURS CIRCULATING NORTHSHORE RE: White Van
From the Editor: PLEASE NOTE, I make no claims about being an expert about this situation (and strongly suggest contacting local law enforcement with any questions or if looking for advice about teaching your kids to stay safe… Nonetheless, here are some things I have learned in child safety courses I’ve attended over the years: It is always important to be cautious and teach your kids about staying safe, not approaching vehicles: when alone, that they don’t recognize, that their parents have not told them in advance will be picking them up, ect. Also talk to them, as suggested below, about places they can go for safety if concerned. (Children have good instincts, while we don’t want to needlessly frighten them it is also important to remind them they are better to be to cautious then not cautious enough and if they feel a situation is not right they should definitely err on the side of caution. Propagating rumours however can cause unnecessary fear in children or could actually result in situations where they are in more danger. PLEASE contact police if concerned with any criminal or potential criminal behaviour. Police due notify public as soon as possible and through all area media (including OntarioNewsNorth.com) when there is any specific danger to be aware of.
OPP RESPOND TO THE REPORT OF A SUSPICIOUS VEHICLE
SCHREIBER, ON –October 2, 2012 at approximately 8:35 a.m., Schreiber Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) responded the report of a suspicious white coloured vehicle in the Town of Terrace Bay. The complaint was received after a student reported to a teacher that a suspicious vehicle and driver were observed on the same roadway where the student was walking to school.
Officers immediately patrolled the Terrace Bay area and as part of their investigation, consulted with neighbours and others possible witnesses in the neighbourhood. At this time, police have concluded from their investigation that no additional witnesses were located and there was no verbal contact made between the driver and the student.
OPP recognize that conversation is continuing across social networking sites concerning this reported incident. OPP can confirm that officers have consulted with the school administration and youth have been educated regarding steps they can take to ensure their personal safety. At this time police do not believe there is a public safety concern.
Police remind the public that they may contact OPP at 1-888-310-1122 should they observe any suspicious behaviour. OPP officers feel it is important for youth to recognize there are places of safety to go for trusted advice or help should they encounter an incident that causes them concern for their safety. Be aware of surroundings and discuss with caregivers a recommended course of action. Safe places may include a school, a business or restaurant or a government building.
Officers will continue to patrol but appreciate any information that is received from the public.
