Child Safety: Teaching Street Safety To Kids
Here are some of the basic messages to teach your child once he starts venturing out on his own by foot or on a bicycle:
- Stay in areas with other people around. Don’t take short cuts through alleys, deserted parking lots, or vacant lots.
- It’s better to be with a friend or a group of friends than to travel alone.
- Stay alert to your surroundings. Notice who is walking near you, particularly at your side or behind you. Be aware of places you could go to get help from an adult if need be.
- Avoid going into a public restroom alone. If you must, take the stall nearest the door and exit promptly when you’re finished.
- Never talk to strangers. Adults don’t need to ask for help or directions from children. Don’t take things from them, either. Keep a distance of two arm lengths between you and strangers so you are out of grabbing reach.
- Don’t walk or ride your bike near parked cars.
- Possessions can be replaced, but you can’t be. If a bully threatens you on the way home from school, for example, be ready to drop your backpack or books if you have to run away.
- Listen to your gut. If your instincts tell you something feels wrong, don’t wait to find out if your fears are justified. Leave fast and go to a safe area that has adults around who can help.
