Walking with Groups
Stay with a group. Always walk with at least one friend, two or three is even better.
Safe Walking
Stick to the route discussed with your parents (Safe Walking Plan). Never use shortcuts through empty parks, alleys, fields, etc. Avoid empty buildings and isolated areas.
No Headphones
Don’t wear headphones. Always be aware of your surroundings.
Strangers Offering Rides
If a stranger offers you a ride, say “NO!” and stay far away from their car.
Asking for Help
If someone is following you on foot or in a car, go to a place where there are other people – to a neighbor’s home or into a store, for instance – and ask for help.
Leaving School
Never leave school with a stranger, or anyone for that matter without parent consent.
Defense Safety
Noise is the best defense – yell, scream, shout, scatter books and belongings if forced into a car.
Bus Stop Safety
Move away from any car that pulls up to the bus stop.
School/Playground Safety
Tell a trusted adult if a stranger is hanging around the school or playground.
Strangers Offering Gifts
Never accept things from a stranger.
Stranger Asking Questions
If a stranger asks you a question, don’t talk to them. Run away.
Code Words
Another helpful suggestion is to share a code word with your child known only among family members. It is important to stress anyone offering a ride unexpectedly – even a family friend – will have been given the code word in advance.
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