As children get back to the everyday grind of school, I want to discuss the importance of parents taking the time to talk to their children about security. If this is either your first year of letting your child walk to school by themselves, or your first year of letting your teen stay home alone after school, it's a good time to remind them about what to do or what not to do in certain situations. Children need to be taught basic security tips so that their risks of becoming a victim are as low as possible. One of the most important things for parents to do is to discuss safety with their children and prepare them in case of an emergency.
Below are 10 safety reminders or tips that you can share with your children. As a parent, you are the best judge of your child's character and know the best way to communicate security reminders to him/her. And as a parent myself, we will do anything for our children to keep them safe!
• Remind your children to know that it is okay to say NO to an adult if they feel uncomfort¬able, even if it seems rude. If an adult stranger asks for help, do not help. An adult needs to find another adult to help them. (an emergency may be an exception)
• Remind your children that NO ONE has the right to touch them if they don't want them too.
• Remind your children that it is right to tell mom or dad if an adult asks them to keep a secret or says, "It's our little secret." Make sure they are comfortable with telling you anything.
• Remind your child that he or she should never get into anyone's car without your permission. If someone stops when they are walking do not go to the car but get away. If someone tries to force them into a car or building, scream and run away.
• Remind them to never take candy or gifts from a stranger.
• Create an emergency list that breaks down a potential crisis such as a fire, burglary or poisoning. Have the phone number of what emergency agency to call and make sure your children know where the list and know what to say.
• Remind your children not to open the door to anyone, including the police, without first consulting you for permission.
• Remind your children how too properly lock all doors, including patio and basement doors, and the need to keep these doors locked at all times.
• Educate your children about online dangers and make sure they only use the Internet with your permission. Children need to understand the importance of not giving out personal information or sending pictures to anyone on the Internet.
• Remind your children to never tell anyone that they are home alone. If they answer the phone and the caller asks for mom/dad, have them respond by saying, "They are busy", or instruct them to not answer the phone without first checking caller ID. Have a plan.
Below is a link of a home security interactive piece that I developed with an internet broadcasting company that services TV station Websites across the US. Take a look at this and hopefully it can give you some tips to strengthen your home security plan.
