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Child
Safety Tips
Children
- I will
always play or go places with at least one other person -- versus alone.
- My body
belongs to me. I will trust my instincts. I will say NO
and run away when a situation doesn't feel right.
- I will
always tell my parents where I am going and when I'll be home. I will return
home before dark.
- I will
walk and play on the routes my parents said were OK. I will avoid shortcuts
or alleys.
- I will
not accept candy, money, gifts or rides from any adult without my parent's
permission.
- I will
not talk with adults I do not know. I will back away from them if they try
to talk to me.
- I will
always lock my home and car doors. I will not admit that I am home alone.
- I will
learn to dial 911. I will learn how to use the pay phone without money. I
will learn my address and phone number.
- I will
always walk against traffic on the sidewalk.
- I will
not allow adults to trick or force me into going places or doing things such
as help find pets, carry packages, take pictures, play games, or take drugs
with them. I will always check with my parents first.
Parents
- Have a
private family code word for emergencies.
- Maintain
current ID, including photograph, video and fingerprints.
- Maintain
current addresses and phone numbers of your children's friends.
- Do not
advertise your child's name on clothing, school supplies or backpacks.
- It is
important to keep all doors and windows locked.
- Seek
alternatives to leaving children alone in the home, on the street or in the
car.
- Children
should know their phone number and how to use a pay-phone without money to
call home or 911.
- Be a role
model to your children. Settle arguments with words, not violence.
- By
promoting your child's self-esteem and letting them know that you love them
for who they are, you will teach them the self-confidence they need to avoid
drugs and crime.
- Listen to
your children. Encourage them not to keep secrets from you.
- Your
child should know that certain strangers can be helpful such as a Police
Officer, moms with children, and store clerks.
- Teach
your children what to do if they become separated in a crowd or a store.
Seek assistance from a helpful stranger.
Community
- When time
allows, volunteer at your children's school or in after school activities.
- Knowing
your neighbors and neighborhood is one of the most important things you can
do to ensure your family's safety.
- Work with
local law enforcement to organize a neighborhood watch program. Establish
safe houses on every block.
- Report
any crimes or suspicious activities to the police, school authorities and
parents.
- Insist
that your legislators, at all levels, support laws that are protective of
and designed to benefit children.
A Special
Thanks to Marc Klaas for his assistance
Make sure to visit the Polly Klaas Foundation Page
Visit
the klaaskids website here!
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