Safety Pup Day

Safety Pup Day is observed on February 12. This day honors the creation of Safetypup, the official mascot of the National Child Safety Council (NCSC). The observance is dedicated to teaching children essential safety rules regarding fire prevention, traffic, personal security, and the avoidance of dangerous substances through the use of a friendly, non-threatening character.

History of Safety Pup Day

Safetypup was created by the Research and Development Department of the National Child Safety Council and officially introduced to the world on February 12, 1985. The launch took place at a major news conference in Washington, D.C., featuring award-winning actress Rita Moreno as the program’s spokesperson. The character was designed with the help of designers from Jim Henson’s Children’s Television Workshop to ensure the mascot would be appealing and trustworthy to young children. ¹

Following its debut, the Safetypup program became a primary tool for law enforcement agencies and educators across the United States. The mascot’s image and safety tips were printed on billions of school milk cartons and grocery bags, reaching children in their daily environments. Over the decades, thousands of Safetypup puppets and mascot costumes have been distributed to police and sheriff departments to facilitate interactive safety presentations in local schools and community centers.

Why is Safety Pup Day important?

This day is important because it provides a proven method for engaging children in serious safety conversations without causing fear or anxiety. Research indicates that children are more likely to retain information when it is presented by a relatable character they view as a friend. By focusing on Safetypup’s motto, “Stay Safe and Sound and I’ll See You Around,” the holiday reinforces positive behavior and situational awareness in a memorable way.

The observance also strengthens the relationship between local law enforcement and the youth in their communities. When officers visit schools dressed as the mascot or using Safetypup puppets, it helps children see them as helpful allies rather than intimidating figures. This foundation of trust is essential for effective community policing and ensures that children know exactly who to turn to during an emergency or a dangerous situation.

• It celebrates the anniversary of a mascot that has educated millions of children.
• The day provides teachers with structured resources for accident prevention lessons.
• It highlights the effectiveness of using mascots to bridge communication gaps.
• People use the date to review home safety plans with their families.
• It recognizes the collaborative efforts of the National Child Safety Council and police.

How to Celebrate Safety Pup Day

Many families celebrate by spending time reviewing basic safety protocols, such as memorizing emergency phone numbers or practicing a home fire drill. Parents often use online resources from the NCSC to download coloring pages or activity sheets that feature Safetypup’s advice. It is a common time for parents to check the batteries in smoke detectors and ensure that first-aid kits are fully stocked and accessible.

Schools and local police departments often host special events where Safetypup makes a guest appearance to lead safety demonstrations. These events might include tours of police vehicles or lessons on how to safely interact with unfamiliar animals. Some communities organize “Safety Fairs” where children can earn certificates or temporary tattoos for completing different safety stations, such as learning how to fit a bicycle helmet properly or identifying the “Helping Hands” in their neighborhood.

• Practice a home emergency escape plan with all family members.
• Visit the National Child Safety Council website for printable safety activities.
• Watch a child safety video featuring the Safetypup character.
• Review the rules for talking to strangers and staying safe online.
• Test all home safety equipment like carbon monoxide and smoke alarms.

Safety Pup Day Dates Table

1. https://nationalchildsafetycouncil.org/tag/safetypup/[↩]