Each year thousands of children are victimized by crime. No matter what sex or race or where you live and go to school, you too can become a victim of crime.

Wherever you are, always remember to Be Alert! Always Be Aware of what's happening around you. The following tips are important for crime prevention. Keeping these suggestions in mind and following them when necessary will lessen your changes of becoming a victim.

SAFETY ON THE STREET

While you are walking remember:

• Have your mom or dad, or both of them, walk your school route with you to make sure it is safe.

• When your mom or dad cannot walk with you, walk with a friend. Two are always better than one, especially if there's an emergency. Strangers usually attack one person.

• Always stick to the same route when going and coming from school.

• Don't take short cuts.

• Be observant as you walk. Be aware of your surroundings. If you think you are being followed, you can cross the street.

• If you think you are in danger, yell "help" and run to the nearest house or back to school.

• If a stranger in a car asks you questions, don't get close to the car (you can get pulled in) and never get in it.

• Remember, a stranger is anyone you and your parents don't know well.

• Some adults can tell you what to do, such as a teacher or a police officer, but no adult can tell you what to do just because he or she is older than you. If you're ever in a situation that makes you feel uncomfortable in any way, you have the right to say NO, loud and clear.

• Don't tell anyone your name and address when you are out walking, and don't think that because someone knows your name that they know you. Maybe he/she heard someone else call you by name.

• Establish a code or secret word that only you and your parents know.

NOTE: Wearing clothing with your name on the outside tells strangers who you are.

SAFETY AT SCHOOL

• Do not wear expensive jewelry or clothing.

• Do not carry more money than you need.

• Place your money in a secure pocket.

• Do not stay alone in the hallways between classes.

SAFETY AT PLAY

• Do not ride your bicycle in deserted areas. Ride in a group, if possible. Do not ride at night.

• Do not stay alone in a playground or recreational area. Play in groups and walk home in groups. Stay away from dark and wooded areas. Do not play in abandoned buildings.

• If something is wrong, scream and run to safety.

• If you leave your bicycle outside a store, house, etc., secure it with lock and chain.

SAFETY IN YOUR APARTMENT/HOME

• Have your keys ready as you approach your door to enter.

• Do not attempt to enter your residence if you see a suspicious person in front of it or walking behind you. Go to a neighbor you trust.

• Make sure your door is always locked. If there is a knock at the door, do not acknowledge it.

• Do not open your door for strangers, no matter how friendly they may appear. If they want to use your phone in an emergency, make the call for them.

• If you are alone in a house try to keep a radio or television turned on to give the impression that the residence is occupied.

• Never tell anyone at the door or on the phone that you are alone, or give out any information.

SAFETY TIPS FOR YOUR CHILD'S CAR SEAT

Is your child's car seat being used properly?

At least 4 out of 5 child seats are not properly used and may not protect your child in a crash.

The following tips can help you use your child's car seat properly:

• Send in the registration card that comes with your new seat so you can be notified of a manufacturer's recall.

• Infants should remain rear facing until 1 year and 20 pounds.

• Rear facing seats must never be used in the front seat of a car with a passenger side air bag. All children under 12 are safer in the back seat!

• Use the instruction manual when threading the seat harness to be sure the straps are in the right slots for your child and the harness is threaded correctly.

• The harness should be snug against your child's chest and the harness clip should be at armpit level.

• The seat should be secured very tight in the vehicle with the locking clip properly used if it is needed. Refer to the vehicle and car seat owners manuals to determine if a locking clip is needed and how to use it.

• Never give your child food on sticks (i.e. lollipops) as the stick could get lodged in the child's throat in a crash.

• Never use a seat that has been involved in a crash. Car seats are a single use item.

Last Updated: November 10, 2006