A NEW home safety teaching package has been given top marks by children at an Oldbury school.

Pupils at St Francis Xavier Catholic Primary School took part in the launch of the scheme at the town’s library yesterday.

They watched a performance and have a set of books to read at school, featuring Prickles the hedgehog and other animals, highlighting dangers ranging from dogs, sun and open water to swallowing poisonous substances and choking.

Councillor Simon Hackett, cabinet member for children’s services, who attended the launch, said: "This is a fantastic scheme and as a parent of a young child I am aware of how important it is to keep children safe in the home."

“The performance was very enjoyable and I know many other young children will benefit from the programme and reading the books”.

The package has proved a big hit with youngsters at children’s centres and libraries and it is hoped to roll the programme out across Sandwell.