Drenthe schools and childcare centers receive wolf safety protocol after multiple sightings
Schools and childcare facilities in Drenthe now have clear guidelines on how to respond if a wolf is spotted nearby. The new protocol aims to reduce unrest and ensure safety for children and staff after recent wolf sightings near schools in Ruinen and Zeijen.
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Affected Area | Drenthe, specifically near schools in Ruinen and Zeijen |
| Target Audience | School administrators, teachers, childcare providers |
| Key Advice | Stay calm, keep children indoors if wolf lingers, make noise if wolf approaches |
| Reporting Point | Wolf Reporting Point |
| Helpline | 0800-1212 (National Wolf Information Point, available on school days) |
| Emergency Number | 112 (immediate danger) |
| Protocol Availability | Province of Drenthe website |
| Collaborators | Municipalities, police, LIW, wolf experts, schools, childcare organizations |
The Province of Drenthe is responsible for nature management and public safety within the region. In this role, it develops policies and protocols to address emerging challenges, such as the increasing presence of wolves near populated areas like schools and childcare facilities.
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Read the full translated article below
Action Protocol for Wolves for Schools and Childcare Facilities
Schools and childcare organizations in Drenthe will receive an action protocol for situations where a wolf is spotted in the vicinity. The protocol provides practical advice to teachers and caregivers on what they can do if a wolf is near the school or childcare facility.
The reason for the protocol is multiple sightings of wolves near primary schools, including in Ruinen and Zeijen. These situations raised questions and caused unrest. Schools indicated a need for clear and unambiguous guidelines. The Province of Drenthe has therefore taken the initiative for this action protocol.
The protocol is intended for school administrators and staff, as well as childcare providers, and aligns with existing national guidelines. It was developed in collaboration with schools, childcare organizations, municipalities, the police, the National Wolf Information Point (LIW), and wolf experts. Experiences from other provinces were also taken into account.
Key Advice from the Protocol:
- Stay calm and avoid panic. Do not run away when you see a wolf.
- A wolf passing at a distance is normal behavior and usually harmless.
- Keep children indoors if a wolf remains near the building for an extended period.
- If a wolf comes too close, make yourself appear larger and make noise. Stay together and back away calmly.
- Never feed or lure a wolf, and do not chase it.
- Report every sighting to the Wolf Reporting Point (verwijst naar een andere website) of BIJ12.
- Call 0800-1212 for questions and advice about wolves. This is the number for the National Wolf Information Point (LIW), which is available on school days.
- Call 112 in case of immediate danger or if a wolf does not leave.
Protocol and Infographic
The protocol describes various situations, from a passing wolf to a wolf on the school grounds, so staff know which actions are appropriate in each case. In addition to the protocol, a clear infographic has been created with the key advice. Both can be downloaded via the website of the Province of Drenthe (verwijst naar een andere website). Municipalities will receive the protocol to further distribute it among schools and childcare locations. With this action protocol, the province aims to provide clarity and reassurance. Schools now know what to do in a province where wolves are also present.