Keeping Children Safe

• Teach your child that if he/she does not personally know a person or has not been introduced to a person by his/her parents, the person is to be considered a stranger.
• Have a "code word" for your child. If a stranger asks the child to come with them, the child should ask for the "code word." If the person does not know the "code word", the child does not go with that person.
• If the child is grabbed by a stranger, tell them to yell, "He's not my daddy" or "She's not my mommy."
• If your child is ever unsure about someone's intentions, teach them to trust their feelings and run away.
• Know your children's friends and where they play.
• Instruct your child to report to you suspicious persons or attempts by unknown adults to approach them or become friendly with them.
• Instruct your children to not accept rides or gifts from anyone without your approval.
• Tell your children to check with you before going anywhere with anyone.
• Immediately check any delay in your child's return home.