Most people are nice, but there are some who are bad. Bad people don't wear a sign on their head saying "I'm bad!", so we have to be careful of all strangers.
Who is a stranger? Anyone you don't know is a stranger. If you are looking for help it is OK to talk to some strangers - someone who is in a uniform. Can you tell me who wears a uniform? A mother who has children with her is another good stranger to go to for help. But, if an adult comes up to YOU and starts talking, that's when your radar should tell you something is wrong.
Three steps back If an adult stops you on the street to ask you a question, - even if you know them - take 3 steps back. It's OK to be rude If an adult that you don't know asks you a question, it's OK to ignore them & run away. They should ask an adult. Don't get fooled by these questions: Can you help me find my lost puppy? Do you want to see the kittens in the back of my van? Can you tell me where the school is? Do you want some candy?
Don't wear your name Never put your name on the outside of your coat, lunch box, knapsack. Someone could trick you into thinking they know you by using your name.
Play Safe Always play in your "safety zone" Don't play in dangerous places Never walk alone.
If you get lost - If you are at the mall or the PNE and you get separated from your parents, don't go wandering around. Look for a trusted adult (who's that?) or go into a store and tell the clerk that you've lost your parents. They will know what to do. DO NOT GO OUTSIDE OF THE MALL WITH ANYONE - EVEN IF THEY TELL YOU THEY SAW YOUR PARENTS IN THE PARKING LOT, OR THAT YOUR PARENTS TOLD THEM TO GET YOU!
Yell, stomp, run - You're not my father (or mother) - will bring help from any adult who hears it. Run to a store, Block Parent sign, school, trusted stranger, home
Have a code word - Everyone should have a family code word that can be used for unexpected pick-ups.
Phone Safety - Know how to call 9-1-1, or operator "0" for help Know your own phone number Never tell anyone on the telephone that you are home alone, what could you say instead? parents are busy, take a message
Internet Safety - Never give your real name on the internet, or any other personal information like your telephone number or address. Chat rooms are filled with people who are not who they say they are, don't believe anyone! Never make plans to meet someone you've met on the Internet without talking to your parents first. Never accept gifts from strangers, that includes on the Internet!
Parents - Always tell your parents where you are going, and GO to where you say you will. If your plans change, tell someone! Always take the same route to & from school. Always walk with someone. Never keep secrets - if an adult encourages you to keep secrets from your parents, they are up to no good! If something has made you feel uncomfortable, talk it over with someone.