The Ernakulam Rural police have launched a comprehensive safety analysis of schools in the Munambam subdivision, focusing on various aspects including infrastructure, emotional well-being, and cyber safety. This initiative involves a 12-point questionnaire designed to assess safety measures across approximately 120 of the 140 schools in the area.
Key areas under review include the structural integrity of compound walls and gates, as well as the verification of police clearance certificates for school vehicle drivers. The police are also examining the fitness of these vehicles. Schools that report deficiencies in their safety protocols will receive special attention, according to officials.
As part of the questionnaire, school authorities were asked about the installation of complaint boxes and whether students have been educated on their use. The survey also inquires about measures taken to curb the sale of drugs and tobacco on school grounds and to regulate mobile phone usage among students during school hours.
This safety analysis program was introduced during a workshop held on Saturday,June 20, where teachers were appointed as school safety officers. An officer involved in the project noted, “We have received the filled-in forms, and they will be analyzed shortly. Based on the responses,steps will be taken to address the shortcomings in each school. A score below eight will be considered as indicating compromised safety.”
District Police Chief K.S . Sudarshan emphasized that this initiative is follow-up to prior safety awareness measures implemented before schools reopened. S. Jayakrishnan, Deputy Superintendent of Police in Munambam, highlighted the necessity of ensuring student safety from multiple angles . The Fire and Rescue Services of North Paravur are also participating in program,providing practical training on first aid for various emergencies,including injuries from falls, electric shocks, snakebites, and attacks by stray animals.
