Flair

These days are far different from when parents were children. Children have to be constantly reminded about the dangers that lurk around them.

As the new school term begins, Flair will, during the month of September, share safety tips for you to remember at home, in school, on the roads, at the bus stops, in the taxis and in all public spaces to keep your children safe.

It might appear that some topics seem too much for children to handle, but remember to warn them about the following:

1. Never walk in lonely or unlit places.

Walk in groups or with at least one other person.

Do not accept gifts, sweets or rides from strangers.

Do not play in lonely or deserted places.

Children need to know their full name, parents' names, and home address and phone number.

Teach children never to put their name on their clothes, jewellery, caps or belongings where people can see it.

Teach children to tell you about things that happen to them that make them feel scared, uncomfortable or sad.

Your children should know the difference between a good secret and a bad secret. A good secret is fun to keep, like a surprise party. A bad secret feels bad to keep, and telling their parents about it doesn't make them a 'tattletale'.

Do not talk to strangers. A stranger is anyone you don't know well. Even people you recognise - like the mailman or ice-cream truck driver - are strangers, and that someone can be a stranger even if they look nice or know your name. Never tell strangers their name or they you live.

Buddy System: Ensure that your children use the 'buddy system' and avoid walking or playing alone outside and in public places.

Walking: Encourage your children that when they walk down the street to always face traffic so that they can see if someone stops their car near them and to never take short cuts through deserted areas like gullies or vacant lots.

12. Tell your children that if strangers approach, yell 'No' and run to a crowded area.

HINTS

Children should:

Keep both hands free and don't walk with hands in their pockets.

Beware of someone who warns them of the danger of walking alone and then offers to accompany them. This is a ploy some attackers have been known to use.

Sources: The Guardsman Group Limited and Child Quest International's website, and a handbook produced by the Jamaica Constabulary Force in association with the United States Agency for International Development.