Yes, children are our most valuable resource. Therefore it is absolutely necessary that we take positive measures to insure their safety and prevent them from becoming victims of crime.

Parents...

* Never leave children alone - Not at home - In a vehicle - At play - Anywhere!
* Define what a STRANGER is. Let your kids know that just because they see someone everyday - e.g. mailman, neighbors, traffic guards, etc. - it doesn't mean these people are not always safe. Unless they are immediate family they ARE strangers!
* Teach your children their full name, your name, full address, and phone number, including area codes.
* Teach children how to use a phone and especially how to dial 9-1-1 in an appropriate situation.
* Teach your children the "What if...?" Game - Make up dangerous situations that they might encounter and helping them play out what they would do in each situation.
* Take the time to talk to your children and be alert to any noticeable changes in their behavior or attitude toward an adult or teenager as it may be a sign of sexual, emotional or physical abuse.
* Set up procedures with your child's school or day care center as to whom the child will be released to other than yourself and what notification procedure they are to follow if the child does not show up on time or another person shows up instead of the authorized person.
* Teach your children that their body is private and no one has the right to touch them in a way that makes them feel uncomfortable. If anyone touches them in a wrong way they should say "NO!" "GET AWAY!" and TELL SOMEONE they trust.