STRANGER DANGER !

The Stranger danger theme applies to the younger and older children alike. The dangers are the same but how children avoid these dangers takes time and effort on the part of the parent. Younger children must be given constant reminders so why not start with the simple and basic statement in the coloured box below.

A STRANGER IS SOMEONE YOU DON`T KNOW

Over time follow on with these . . .

• Never take sweets money or gifts from a stranger.
• Never accept lifts from a stranger, or go for walks with a stranger.
• If a stranger approaches you tell a parent, teacher, policeman or an adult you know.
• Remember, a stranger can be either a man or a woman.
• If your parent fails to arrive at school or other place to uplift you, return into the building you have come from and tell a known adult. They will try to find out why your lift has not arrived.
• Tell your parents where you are going, who you are with and what time you will be returning.

If you are going out in the evening or have a part time job, this is how to stay safe:

Be sure your parents know where your are. Go out with a friend, and come back with them. If you are going out alone, get a lift there and back from someone you know or with a pre-arranged taxi. If you have to walk tell someone when you are leaving, and the time you expect to arrive at your destination. Also tell them the route you intend to walk. Plan your route to or from home to avoid quiet or dark alleys. If you are out and your lift or taxi doesn`t turn up, ask to use a `phone to find out why. Ask to stay until your lift turns up.

Don`t take a lift from someone you have just met. If you are babysitting get a telephone number where you can call the childs parents. Don`t let strangers into the house. Don`t tell callers you are alone, get them to call or phone back. If you are looking for a casual job, like babysitting, do it through family or friends. If you answer an advert go with a parent or friend on your first day. On a paper round never go into a strangers house or take a lift. Wherever you are, make sure you know how to make an emergency call and the quickest way out.

If your child has been a victim of a crime . . .
There are a number of help groups dedicated to helping children who have been victims of crime or abuse. Click for a list of their addresses and contact telephone numbers.

Drug Dangers . . .
Issues relating to Drugs are on a separate page.

              

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