Manx Telecom staff presented a workshop advising children how they can stay safe online and when using their mobiles and laptops. It was all part of this year’s Crucial Crew event at Isle of Man College and once again proved to be an entertaining and informative event. Children learned how to be safe when using social networks and the warning signs that they should look out for and report to parents or teachers. The Manx Telecom presentation also gave advice on combating cyber bullying and on how to prevent mobile phones from being stolen. Children were taught to think about who they contact on social networks and to be aware that not everyone they contact will have an online profile which matches their real identity. This was demonstrated using three double-sides masks, each with a child’s face on one side - which represented an online profile. At the end of the demonstration the masks were turned round to show the faces of two adults and one child - which represented the real online identity. Sian Penton, Manx Telecom Product Co-ordinator, said: “The children were very enthusiastic and were more than willing to take part and really gave a good effort. We enjoyed it as much as the children.” Around 800 Year 6 pupils from schools across the Island attended this year’s Crucial Crew. Crucial Crew began in 1992 and every year since then primary school pupils from across the Island have learned about road safety, first aid and safety in the home - among many other useful topics. Isle of Man police officers taught children about how and when they should dial 999, while Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service gave workshops about fire safety and hazard identification in the home. St John Ambulance taught youngsters basic first aid and what to do if they find someone who is injured. Other presentations included a road safety workshop in which children learned about the meanings of different hazard warning signs plus the Coastguard providing essential safety tips for people living in coastal areas, including the dangers of climbing cliffs, boating and general marine safety and endorsing the message about 999 calls. The Manx Electricity Authority - supported by Manx Gas and school nurses - performed a pantomime about home safety with the main character - Dame Dizzy Aster - showing some of the dangers children need to be aware of. - ENDS -