Make sure your child knows his or her
complete name, address, and home telephone/parent cell
phone (with area code).
Establish a code word for situations
when your child is to be picked up by someone other
than a parent or regular caregiver. Remind your child
never to tell a stranger the code word as predators
have tried to trick children into revealing the word.
Teach your child that if it feels weird
and uncomfortable it probably is. Be sure to regularly
remind your child that he/she can talk to you about
anything.
Don't lose sight of your child in public
places, especially in a crowded place.
Remind your child that if he or she
is lost to find a store clerk or police officer and
wait with that person until you or the police arrive.
The child shouldn't go with someone who offers to take
him/her to you unless it is a uniformed officer.
Your child should know to never approach
a car for any reason unless you have given your permission.
Don't forget that child predators look
like regular folks, so anyone that you don't know is
a stranger.
If you must leave your child at home
alone, remind the child to never open the door for anyone
that you have not approved.
Teach your child to always walk with
someone. Safety in numbers.
If your child is in a dangerous situation,
he or she should yell for help ("This is not my
Mom/Dad") and run to a trusted adult. The child
should know never to run into an uninhabited area.
Don't put nametags on the outside of
your child's clothing, bookbags, etc. A child abductor
will use this information to his/her advantage.
It is important for families to talk
about child safety. Keep communication open and take
advantage of the many resources available for keeping
your child safe