As soon as a child is old enough to articulate a sentence, he or she can begin the process of learning how to protect themselves against abduction and exploitation. Children should be taught the following safety measures and tips.

Who I Am & Where I Live
Teach children about who they are including their full name, birthdate, complete address, phone number (including area code), and their parents' full names.

What I Do If I Can't Find My Parents
If you are in a public place and you get separated from your parents, don't wander around looking for them. Go to a checkout counter, the security office, or the lost and found. Tell the person in charge that you have lost your mom and dad and need help in finding them.

Check First
Always check with your parents, teacher, or baby-sitter before getting into a car or going anywhere with any person. Check first before going into a neighbor's house. Check first before going anywhere. Your parents need to know where you are.

Use the Buddy System
It's more fun and there is safety in numbers. You should not be wandering around the neighborhood after dark or alone.

Stay Away
If someone follows you on foot or in a car, stay away from him or her. You shouldn't go near the car to talk to the people inside.

Don't Assist Adults
No one should be asking you for directions or to look for a lost puppy or to ask for assistance. Adults should ask adults, not children.

Run, Scream, Get Away
If someone tries to take you away, your best defenses are your legs and your voice. Yell "This person is trying to take me!" or "This is not my father (or mother)!" Try to run and scream before they get too close. Call 9-1-1 from any phone. It's a free call, you don't need money.

Never Hitchhike
Never hitch or try to get a ride home with anyone unless you have checked and your parents have told you it's OK to ride with that person.

Don't Keep Secrets
Don't keep secrets that make you feel uncomfortable. No one should ask you to keep a special secret. Tell an adult that you trust.

Your Body Is Special & Private
No one should touch you in ways or places that make you scared or uncomfortable, nor should you touch anyone else in those areas.

Know That You Are Special
If you have a problem, any kind of a problem, you can talk to your parents, a teacher, a counselor, your principal, a police officer or a friend of the family.

You Can Call 9-1-1
If you have an emergency, or in a situation where you feel you are in danger, call 9-1-1. You will get help.

Additional Resources
Please share these tips with your family and friends. These tips and other safety information are available from the following organizations: