Tips on Child Safety...

Teach your child that a stranger is anyone you don't know.

Teach your child never to go anywhere with a stranger under any circumstances. Teach your child that if someone grabs them to not scream but yell, "This is not my mom/dad!".

Teach your child that if confronted by a stranger to run to a crowded area. Do not run and hide.

Teach your child to walk to school with friends, never alone.

Familiarize yourself with your child's routes to and from school and to their friend's houses.

Teach your child their complete name and home address including city, state and ZIP code. They should also be taught their telephone number including area code.

Never leave your child alone in a car. Prepare a plan to be followed if you or your child become separated in crowded areas.

Do not put your child's name on his clothing, lunch box, etc. A stranger may try to use this to trick your child into believing he is a friend

When you're at home...

Keep your doors locked at all times, even when you're at home or working outdoors.

Maintain good outdoor lighting and leave it on at night.

Don't keep large sums of cash at home.

Get to know your neighbors; keep their phone numbers handy in case of emergency.

Use a "buddy system" with trusted neighbors and check on each other daily; look into "check-in" services provided by local police or senior citizen organizations.

If a person at your door claims to be from the electric, gas or phone companies, ask for identification and the name of a supervisor. Contact the supervisor; only an imposter will mind the wait.

Be aware of unfamiliar cars in your neighborhood.

Don't admit strangers into your residence. If someone needs to use the phone, offer to make the call for them.