HOW CAN YOU MAKE THE INTERNET A SAFER PLACE?
The internet is a huge part of our lives, however you’ll also know the significant problems its existence has created. There are no simple answers to making the internet a safer place, but over a hundred countries will be trying to address at least some of the challenges as part of this year’s Safer Internet Day which takes place on 10th February.
It’s being coordinated in the UK by the UK Safer Internet Centre and will involve hundreds of organisations working to promote the safe, responsible and positive use of digital technology for children and young people.
There’s no doubting the role of the internet in people’s lives nowadays and this is every bit as true for children. The latest Ofcom research reveals 91% of 5 to 15 year olds live in a household with internet access. Incredibly, over a third of all 3 to 4 year olds are now accessing the internet in their homes. There’s no avoiding it and when used correctly and safely the internet brings many advantages.
The internet also exposes younger people to risks their parents never had to worry about - and therefore may not be aware of. This can mean children aren’t as well protected against those dangers as they could be.
‘LET'S CREATE BETTER, TOGETHER’With the aim of ‘creating a better internet together’, Safer Internet Day focuses on giving children proper support to safely get the best out of the internet. Last year, the event reached 25% of UK children and it’s hoped it will reach even more children this year.
Activities will be taking place across the UK involving a broad range of businesses, schools, youth groups, charities and the police. Everything we do at Jackson Fire and Security is to keep people, places and possessions safe so we are keen supporters of Safer Internet Day.
WOULD YOU LIKE TO GET INVOLVED?
There are lots of things you can do to support Safer Internet Day. If you or your company use social media, you can help spread the word by using the hashtag #SID2015 in your tweets, following @UK_SIC, liking theirFacebook page and sharing their content.
They are even having their own TV channel on the day with an hour long programme being created in conjunction with the Diana Award anti-bullying programme – you can find out more on Twitter (@SID2015tv). There’s also a Safer Internet Day LinkedIn group.
If you’re a parent, or your business has links, why not point local schools in the direction of the education packs which have been designed for both primary and secondary school children as well as parents and carers?
SHOW YOUR SUPPORT!
If your business does get involved, you can join Safer Internet Day’s supporters list. You’ll have the opportunity to explain what you are doing to support the day and it will be displayed on their website along with your business details. It’s a really worthwhile event to be part of so look out for us on the website and we hope to see you on there too!