Child Safety Tips from the Takoma Park Police

Luckily last week's turned out to have been a misunderstanding, but that doesn't mean it could happen in Takoma Park. So here are some child safety tips from the Takoma Park Police Department.

• Children should travel with a friend, or better yet, a group of friends when riding a bike or walking to or from school or other destinations.

• If someone follows you on foot, get away as quickly as you can. Go to someone's house you know, or run to other people, or just run away.

• If someone is following you in a car, turn around and go in the opposite direction or take a path where a car would not go.

• Parents should not become lax about kids going to a friend's home in a neighborhood--even if it is only a few doors away. Snatchings can happen in an instant; even under a parent's watchful eye. The key is to keep your eye on a youngster. Older youth should be instructed to call when they arrive at a friend's home for peace of mind and as a good safety tip practice.

• If at all possible, an adult should greet youngsters as they get off a school bus, and not have them walk home alone.

• Adults should understand that boys are at just as greatest of risk as girls. It is a common safety tip misconception that child molesters or perpetrators are typically men and seek only girls. Molesters come in all ages and both genders, and their victims can be of either sex.

• Parents should begin reinforcing these safety tips as soon as a kid is old enough to understand, and above all, ensure that their child feels comfortable enough in discussing these issues, their concerns or fears, or any potentially inappropriate events that have possibly transpired.

Awareness of these safety tips can help kids be less susceptible to any
stranger dangers.