STREETPROOFING KIDS

For Children and Parents:

• Parents - take a walk through your neighbourhood; discover the Block Parent homes - know what the sign looks like and point it out to your children.
• Always take the same route to and from school - no shortcuts. Always walk with a friend.
• When going to school, go directly there and do not stop on the way.
• Never hitchhike.
• Confirm a password or secret code with your children and teach them to never go with anyone unless they can give you that secret code or password.
• Never ride home with anyone unless you have your parent's permission first.
• Always ask for your parent's permission before going to a friend's home after school.
• Never let anyone into your house if you are home alone.
• Never say you are home alone when talking on the telephone.
• Always be sure your parent(s) know where you are.
• Be careful if a grown up asks for directions. Keep a safe distance away.
• Say no if a friend or grown up ask you to do something you don't think is right.

Tips for Parents:

• Never put your child's name on the outside of their coat, hat or backpack - it makes it easy for someone to gain their trust by calling them by name.
• Make sure your child knows their name, address and telephone number including the area code.
• Make sure your child knows how to use a pay phone in an emergency.
• Always keep an updated list of names, address and phone numbers of your child's friends.
• Know where your child is at all times.
• Be familiar with your child's friends and daily activities.
• Reinforce with your child that strangers can drive any type of vehicle, can be male or female, young or old, short or tall, look shabby or well-dressed.
• Consider using a secret code or password should someone other than you pick up your child.
• Let you children know they can call 911 or 0 for an operator and they do not need money for this.