| Dangers for children can lurk everywhere, including on | | | | "Mom" as loudly as possible while running to a busier |
| the street. When your child is going somewhere such | | | | area. |
| as school or the home of a friend, it is important for | | | | When your child is walking somewhere, whether it is to |
| them to know how to protect themselves from any | | | | school or a friend's house, it is crucial for them to be |
| dangers they might encounter. | | | | distraction free so they are able to focus on where |
| Whenever possible, children should never walk alone. | | | | they are going and be cognizant of what is going on |
| They should always walk with a group of friends and | | | | around them. Therefore, it is a good idea for kids to |
| stay close to one another. There should always be a | | | | avoid wearing headphones, texting or talking on a cell |
| destination and your child should know not to wander | | | | or playing a hand held game. |
| or simply stroll around. Shortcuts should be avoided, | | | | If possible, do have your child carry a cell phone with |
| along with any buildings that are empty or abandoned. | | | | them for emergencies but remind them that it is only |
| Before your child leaves, make sure you know exactly | | | | for emergencies and discourage them from chatting |
| where they are going and which route they are going | | | | on the phone while they should be paying attention to |
| to take to arrive there. In the event that something | | | | traffic and what is going on in their immediate area. If |
| should happen, this will allow you to know exactly | | | | you are not able to provide your child with an |
| where to look for your child. Encourage your child to | | | | emergency cell phone, give some spare change so |
| stick with that same route and not deviate from it. | | | | they can use a pay phone if they need to do so. |
| In the event that your child feels threatened or even if | | | | Finally, ask your child to call you when they have |
| they just feel that something is not right, they should | | | | arrived safely and also to give you another call just |
| trust their instincts. Encourage your child to run to a | | | | before they leave to come home. |
| busy store or business if they find themselves in this | | | | "Safety first, because when it comes to personal |
| type of situation. It is also a good idea to yell "Dad" or | | | | safety, you may not get a second chance. |