Young children should:
– never say they are alone if they answer the phone: they can offer to take a message or say their parents will phone back.
never answer the door if they are alone.
– not invite anyone into the house without the permission of a parent or babysitter.
– not go into people’s houses without letting anyone know where they are.
never get into anyone’s car without permission.
– not take candy or other gifts from strangers or anyone else without asking a parent first.
– never play in deserted buildings or isolated areas.
– scream and scatter books and belongings if they are forced toward a building or car.
– move away from a car that pulls up beside them if they do not know the driver.
– be taught their full telephone number and address.
– be taught that it’s all right to say ‘no’ to an adult if the person wants them to do something you’ve taught them is wrong.
– know that no one has the right to touch any part of their bodies that a bathing suit would cover.
– tell you, school authorities or a police officer about anyone who exposes private parts.
– tell you if someone has asked them to keep a secret from you.
– go to the nearest cashier if lost or separated from you in a store or mall.
Teens should:
– tell you where they are at all times or leave a written or recorded message at home.
– never hitchhike.
– avoid shortcuts through empty parks, fields, laneways or alleys.
run home or go to the nearest public place and yell for help if they are being followed.
– learn to recognize suspicious behavior and remember a description of the person or vehicle to give you or the police. Write the plate number in the dirt or snow if nothing else is available.
– if attacked for money, jewelry or clothing give it up rather than risk injury.
– feel that they can talk to you and call you to pick them up any time, any place.
Parents should:
– avoid clothing and toys with your child’s name on it. A child is less likely to fear someone that knows his/her name.
– check all potential babysitters and older friends of your child.
– never leave a child alone in a public place, stroller or car. Not even for a minute.
– always accompany young children to the bathroom in a public place and advise them never to play in or around the area.
– always accompany your child on door-to-door activities, i.e. hallowe’en, school fundraising campaigns, etc.
– point out safe houses or homes with the Block Parent sign where children can go if they are in trouble.
– keep an up-to-date colour photograph of your child, a medical and dental history, and have your child fingerprinted.
