Over the last two weeks Central Hastings O.P.P has deliver the “Hug-A-Tree and Survive” program to Grade 2 students throughout Madoc and Township, Marmora and Tweed schools. The program teaches children how to prevent becoming lost and what to do if they should become lost in the woods.
Officers utilize a short video which features a story about a boy who is so excited to go camping that he begins to explore and wanders too far away from his family’s campsite. Once he realizes he is lost, the boy uses his head to stay safe. He makes an emergency shelter out of an orange garbage bag and he uses a whistle to alert and respond to searchers.
The four simple rules that are core to Hug-a-Tree presentations:
Tell an adult where you are going.
If you are lost, “Hug-A-Tree” and stay put.
Keep warm and dry.
Help searchers find you by answering their calls.
In addition Central Hastings OPP’s PC Brian Kennedy who is a member of the Emergency Response Team shared his knowledge of outdoor survival skills and work experience.
Thanks to the support of Central Hastings Community Policing Advisory Committee (CPAC), the students received a Hug-A-Tree Colouring Book and whistle.
