Protecting Your Children
Safety Tips Every Child Should Know
- Never get into a car unless your parents tell you to do so. Also, stay away from anyone who follows you on foot or in a car. Never go near a car to talk to the people inside.
- Adults and other people who need help should not be asking a child for help; they should be asking other adults. Adults should not be asking for directions or to look for a "lost puppy or cat", or telling you that their mother or father is in trouble and that they will take you to them.
- Quickly get away from anyone who tries to take you somewhere. Yell or scream, "This person is not my father or mother".
- Use the "buddy system" and never go places alone. Always ask your parents' permission to leave the yard/play area or to go to a friend’s home.
- Never hitchhike!.
- People should not ask you to keep a special secret. If they do, tell your parents or teacher. Also, never allow someone to take your picture. Quickly tell your parents or teacher.
- You can be assertive and you have the right to say "No" to someone, including adults and even relatives or friends who try to take you somewhere against your will, touch you or make you feel uncomfortable in ANY WAY.
The Yell: Practice a special yell. It is low, loud and long. It tells the person trying to hurt you, "I know what to do! I’m not an easy victim!" It tells everyone within the sound of your voice, "I need help!" Don't freeze or panic, but instead take a deep breath and yell. Your own yell can give you courage and get your feet moving when you need to run away!