Guest Author - Sunniej Jackson

Here are a few safety tips for you and your family. Awareness, planning and practice can make a major difference in the outcome of a possible adverse situation. Being prepared is your best defense.

1. Accept that we may encounter a potentially dangerous situation. Explain to your children that bad things do happen to good and bad people.

2. Set check-in times for older children and enforce consistency.

3. Teach your children to tell you or an adult of abuse, bullying, violence or inappropriate touching from anyone.

4. Teach older children to be aware of surroundings at all times.

5. Advise your children of people they can trust with their problem.

6. Teach young children to stay with you or designated person in crowded areas and not to wander off.

7. Listen closely to your child’s problems of bullying and abuse.

8. Talk to your children about their friends and schoolmates.

9. Don’t focus only on strangers include inappropriate behavior from relatives, friends and neighbors.

10. Talk to your children daily about their day – ask did you meet anyone new or did anything unusual or strange happen.

11. Talk to your children openly about sex and protection.

12. Let your children know that you love them and they can tell you anything – let them express their feelings regularly.

13. Let children know when to scream and draw attention.

14. Teach your child to be independent.

15. Teach your children the importance of the buddy system.

16. Encourage open and honest communication in the home and with both parents.

17. Have a safe code

18. Do not teach young children to keep secrets.

19. Teach your children not to open doors for strangers.

20. Talk to your children in age appropriate language.

21. Teach your children to call you if their plans change.

22. Be a good role model for your children.

23. Seek help when needed.

24. Teach your children safety measures for fire – practice fire drill.

25. When entering crowded areas pre-determine where to meet if you get separated and make sure your child clearly understands.

26. Find positive, safe and fun activities for your children and your family.