Police are investigating after a Vernon student was approached by a stranger in a white van Wednesday afternoon.
The incident took place in the Pottery Road area at 4:30 p.m. May 28, according to a notice issued to families by the Vernon School District on Thursday.
The van stopped next to the student and the driver, a man, motioned with a hand gesture for the student to come to the vehicle, the school district said. The youth walked away and reported the interaction to their parent who contacted police.
“We are still conducting our investigation and, based on the information we have at this time, there is nothing to indicate any criminality is involved,” said RCMP media relations officer Const. Chris Terleski.
“The student did the right thing by not approaching the person, moving to a safe place, and reporting it to an adult," Terleski added. "The importance of having conversations with your children about stranger safety cannot be overstated, and these conversations need to be regular. Talking through it in advance will help give them confidence and better prepare them to make good decisions should they find themselves in an unsafe situation.”
The school district is urging parents to review safety tips and information on how to help kids become "street proof." That information can be found on the RCMP's website.
"With summer break on the way and everyone excited to be outside, this is a crucial reminder to our students and families about street smart safety tips," the school district said.
