“Street proofing” your children

Street proofing is a crucial aspect of keeping children safe in various situations. It involves teaching children important safety measures to protect themselves from potential dangers they may encounter outside the home. Some key street proofing tips include:

1. Teaching children to dial 9-1-1 in an emergency.
2. Encouraging open communication with children when they feel unsafe or afraid.
3. Instructing children to keep parents informed of their whereabouts at all times.
4. Advising children never to admit to being alone in the home when answering the telephone.
5. Emphasizing the importance of not inviting strangers into the house or answering the door when alone.
6. Instructing children never to approach or enter a stranger’s car or hitchhike.
7. Encouraging children never to travel or play alone and always be with friends.
8. Teaching children to trust their feelings and say “NO” to an adult if that adult wants them to do something that is wrong.
9. Instructing children not to accept gifts from strangers.
10. Never play in deserted buildings or isolated areas.
11. Never enter anyone’s home without permission from the parents.
12. To avoid taking shortcuts through parks and fields.
13. Never show money and, if attacked, give it up rather than risk injury.
14. To be aware of their surroundings and not be distracted—never text and walk or wear headphones or earbuds to play loud music.
15. A police officer is a friend who can always be relied upon when they are lost or need assistance.
16. To tell a trusted adult if someone has asked them to keep a secret from you.
17. No one has the right to touch any part of their body that a bathing suit would cover.
18. If they are being followed or approached too closely, to run home or go to the nearest public place and ask for help.
19. To report to you, school authorities or a police officer anyone who acts suspiciously towards them.

Additionally, establishing a family password or secret word for emergencies can help children identify a ‘safe person’ other than their parent or caregiver. It’s also important to have open and ongoing conversations with children about street proofing to ensure they understand and remember these important safety measures.

References : Royal Canadian Mounted Police