Air cadets receive police safety talk

The safe use of mobile phones was discussed when officers met the Welwyn Garden City Royal Air Force Cadets recently.

On Thursday 14 March, officers from the Welwyn Hatfield Neighbourhood Policing Team visited the cadets for a talk on safety.

PC Jack Andrews and PCSOs Anne Devine and Shannon Payne spoke to the cadets about using mobiles phones and social media safely. They gave advice on staying safe online and reminded them to report anybody sending inappropriate images or messages.

The officers also covered the impact that getting involved with criminality can have on a young person’s prospects. For example, a criminal record could affect their chances of going to university, getting certain jobs and even visiting some countries like the USA.

PCSO Anne Devine said: “With social media such a huge part of life now, we wanted to use our visit to highlight the steps that young people can take to stay safe online.

“Being a teenager is a tricky time of life and it is sometimes easy to be tempted by your friends into behaviour that could land you in trouble. The consequences can stay with you for a long time so we explained the importance of not getting caught up in such behaviour.

“The cadets were a great bunch and we really enjoyed meeting with them. As well as the safety talk, they were able to try on our uniform and explore our police vehicles -with the flashing lights and sirens on for good measure!

“I would like to say a special thanks to Flight Lieutenant RAFAC Tara Baker who contacted us to arrange the visit. Everyone had a brilliant time and hopefully the advice we gave to the cadets will keep them safe and ensure their futures remain positive.”

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Officers visiting the cadets