For the Townsman
It's unfortunate that bullying seems to get the most attention when it is at the center of a high profile or tragic event. The reality is that bullying is an everyday occurrence.
The Cranbrook and Kimberley RCMP in cooperation with parents, teachers and youth all have a role to play to ensure the safety of our youth.
It's important to remind everyone to do what they can to keep their schools bully free and to report any acts of bullying or assist those who are victims of bullying.
Young people should also be encouraged to approach teachers or other adults they trust if they are experiencing bullying and are not comfortable speaking with their parents. The problem can only be rectified if the person affected comes forward.
The RCMP in your community believes awareness and education is key to helping youth, parents, teachers and police deal with the growing problem of bullying and cyberbullying.
A number of helpful resources are available to youth and their parents through the www.deal.org website. These include facts on what bullying is, why people bully and who they target and how parents can deal with their child, whether they are being bullied or are the ones doing the bullying.
Both Cranbrook and Kimberley RCMP will be out in the community on Feb 24, to raise awareness and promote how youth can protect themselves against bullying.