Personal Safety

What is Personal Safety? According to Suzy Lamplugh Trust the definition of personal safety is “an individual’s ability to go about their everyday life free from the threat or fear of psychological, emotional or physical harm from others.”. How does that translate to the safety of our children depends on you as a parent or caregiver.  There are many safety risk ares for children and it’s up to us as adults to provide a safe environment when they are young and to then provide information to them as they become older and more independent that will keep them safe.

Safety at Home

• Children should know their name, parent’s name, address and phone number
• Children should how to call 911 emergency number if and when it’s necessary.
• Children should have a emergency plan and have practiced it. What if there is a fire?  What if someone breaks into the house?
• Listen to your children when they have concerns about a caregiver. Drop in unannounced to see for yourself.

Safety ON-line and in the Neighborhood

• Work out an area with your children of the neighborhood. Mark the boundaries that they are allowed to explore. Drive, walk or bike that route to familiarize them with boundaries.
• Get to know your neighbors. Have your children meet the neighbors who are an acceptable safety partner in case of an emergency.
• Don’t allow your child to go to events or places alone. Make sure there are at least two friends when going to Malls, fairs, parks or movie theatres
• Make sure your child is aware that some adults try to trick children and should not be approaching them for directions or help looking for something.
• Never leave children unattended in a car. Make sure children are aware not to approach a car unless they know and trust the driver or passenger. Children should never go anywhere with anyone without getting your permission first.
• Only allow children to be on-line to approved websites.
• Monitor website history and add parent controls to internet.

For more information on Personal Safety, visit our Resources page and click on the month of January.