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Most parents want to educate their children about crime and safety, but they don't know how. Remember, you can't tell a child too much. Parents who talk openly with their children will be approachable ("askable") parents, and children will feel more comfortable in bringing their worries and concerns to them in the future.
- His or her address and telephone number.
- Where to go in an emergency.
- The best kinds of strangers to ask for help.
- Never to get into a stranger's car.
- Never to accept candy or gifts from strangers.
- To always play in safe places.
- Keep and regularly update a complete written description of your child. Take a color photograph of your child every six months. Arrange to have your child fingerprinted and keep the fingerprint card in a safe place.
- Know where your child is at all times. Know their friends and be familiar with their daily activities.
- Know what your child is wearing whenever they leave the house. Don't allow them to wear clothing that has their name or other personal information visible to others. A child is less likely to fear someone who knows his/her name.
- Notice if an adult or teenager is paying an unusual amount of attention to your children or gives them inappropriate or expensive gifts.
- Teach your children to trust their feelings. Let them know it's okay to say NO to things they feel are wrong. Never belittle any fear or concern your child has, real or imaginary.
- Tell your child that anything that makes him or her uncomfortable or suspicious should be reported immediately to you and to school officials.
- Teach your children that the police are their friends and they can rely on them if they are in trouble.
- Check out the routes your child takes when walking or biking to school - whatever your child's age.
- Check out school bus or regular bus stop areas if your child uses them. Look for hazardous short cuts that might tempt kids or take them out of public view.
- Agree on safe walking and biking areas.
- Make sure your child travels with others to and from school; kids in groups are generally safer.
Anyone needing more information on Child Safety
presentations, Police Department tours including
child
car seat checks, call 425-670-5635. For
child car seat appointments call: 425-670-5710.
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