The first ever “Safer Islander” event will take place at Anderson High School tomorrow, with contributions from the emergency services and workplace partners.
The event will involve around 180 Secondary One pupils, with short presentations and workshops throughout the day. Representatives will attend from local emergency services, including police, fire, ambulance and coastguard; and from the construction sector, agriculture industry and utility companies.
Pupils will hear advice on how to avoid dangerous situations, how to react if they find their safety threatened, and hear more about the role of the emergency services and when to contact them. Presenters will offer real-life examples of incidents and how young people can respond to different scenarios.
Other parts of Scotland are known to deliver similar events, to educate and inform younger secondary pupils and this is the first time one has taken place in Shetland.
The event has been coordinated by Shetland Islands Council, in partnership with local agencies.
Billy Mycock from the Council’s Environmental Health team said: “Keeping young people safe in our community is obviously a priority, both in and out of school, and this is event is an important part of educating young people about staying safe, avoiding danger and helping them to act responsibly. We’re grateful to the representatives of different organisations who will lead the presentations and workshops.”