The war has been going on for the third year, and one of the biggest threats to the civilian population is mine danger. Ukraine has become the most mined country in the world, and this problem affects not only the military, but also ordinary citizens, especially children. In war zones and liberated territories, mines, unexploded ordnance and explosive objects can be everywhere: in fields, forests, roadsides, abandoned buildings, and sometimes even in residential areas.
Why are children most at risk?
Children are particularly vulnerable to mine threats due to their natural curiosity and ignorance. They don’t always understand that even an object that looks like a toy or a piece of metal can be deadly. Often they simply do not know what explosive devices look like or what to do if they are detected.
One of the main risks is children’s desire to explore and play. There have already been cases when children tried to pick up an unfamiliar object, not realizing that it could be a trap. In addition, they can enter areas that were previously a battlefield or the site of missile attacks, without noticing signs of mine danger.
What children need to know about the mine threat
The most important task of adults is to teach children to behave properly in order to avoid tragedy. It is important to explain a few key rules to them.
First, no contact with unfamiliar objects. The child should clearly understand that he should never touch, pick up or look at suspicious objects, even if they look safe.
Secondly, clear rules of conduct. It is not possible to enter destroyed buildings, visit forest strips or abandoned territories, where military operations were previously conducted. Even if the area seems safe, there may still be hidden mines or unexploded ordnance.
Third, compliance with official signs and warnings. Signs warning of mines are often installed in dangerous areas. Children need to be explained what such signs look like and what they mean. If they see such a warning, they should leave the area immediately.
The role of adults in mine clearance
Children’s safety is the responsibility not only of teachers and rescue workers, but also of parents. Adults should constantly remind about the danger and explain why you can’t ignore the rules. It is important not to scare children, but to teach them to react correctly in dangerous situations.
Schools and communities should organize informational meetings, invite emergency services specialists, military sappers and volunteers who can explain the rules of behavior to children. Mine safety education programs should become part of the educational process.
In addition, it is necessary to use interactive teaching methods: cartoons, mobile applications, comics or even games that help the child remember the rules of safe behavior.
Ukrainian rescuers and volunteers already conduct hundreds of training events, but this is still not enough. The problem of mine danger will remain relevant for many years after the end of hostilities, so resources should be invested in the education of children and adults today.
Mine hazard knowledge is when information can save lives. And the more children are informed, the less likely they are to become victims of the war even after it is over.
