How to Protect Your Children

By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Experts say parents need to have good communication with their children and set specific boundaries, such as imposing curfews and avoiding strangers. Suggestions to protect children:

• Tell your children which homes they can visit when you're not there.
• Discuss the boundaries of where they can and can't go in the neighborhood.
• Make sure children know their names, addresses and telephone numbers and know how to use the telephone.
• Caution children not to open the door or talk to anyone who comes to the door when they are home alone.
• Don't drop your children off alone at malls, movies, video arcades or parks.
• Tell children never to approach a vehicle, occupied or not, unless accompanied by a parent or trusted adult.
• Impose a curfew, make sure your children know it and require them to check in with you if they are going to be late.
• Choose baby sitters with care. Obtain references from family, friends and neighbors.
• Investigate daycare settings before placing your child. Make certain the center or daycare home is licensed.
• Always listen to your children and make sure they know they can tell you about anything that makes them uncomfortable. Your children are your best source for determining if everything is OK.
• Teach your children to get out of dangerous or uncomfortable situations right away.

SOURCE: National Center for Missing & Exploited Children