Prevention always starts at home. Use the following tips to help educate children on safety and awareness.

CHILDREN SHOULD BE TAUGHT TO:

• Know his/her full name, as well as your name, address and telephone number, including area code. Children should know how to use the telephone.

• Never say they're alone when answering the phone - instead, offer to take a message or say their parents will be back shortly.

• Never answer the door if they are alone. Never invite anyone in the house without permission of a parent or baby-sitter.

• Never take candy or gifts from strangers or anyone else without asking a parent first.

• Never play in deserted buildings or isolated areas.

• Move away from cars that pull up beside them if they do not know the driver.

• Know that no one should touch any part of his or her body that bathing suit would cover.

• Avoid shortcuts through empty parks, fields, laneways or alleys.

• Run home or go to the nearest public place if they are being followed and yell for help.

• Tell you if someone has asked them to keep a secret from you.

• Tell you where they are at all times or leave a message at home. Give up money, jewelry or clothing rather than fight.
• Know they can talk to you and call you to pick them up at any time.

PARENTS SHOULD:

• Avoid clothing and toys with your child's name on it.  A child is less likely to fear someone who knows his/her name.
• Check all potential baby-sitters and older friends of your child. Never leave your child alone in a public place, stroller or car, even for a minute.
• Always accompany young children to the bathroom in public places.
• Always accompany your child on door-to-door activities.
• Point out safe houses where children can go if they are in trouble.
• Create an environment where a child feels safe to talk to you.  Let him/her know that you are interested and sensitive to their fears.
• Teach children that the police are their friends and that they can rely on them if they are in trouble.
• Keep an up-to-date color photograph of your child, as well as a medical and dental history, and complete an Child Identification Kit.