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Crime
Prevention for Children
Each year thousands of children are victimized by crime. No
matter what your age, sex or race or where you live and go to school, you too
can become a victim of crime.
Wherever you are, always remember to Be Alert! Always Be Aware
of what is happening around you. The following tips are important for crime
prevention. Keeping these suggestions in mind and following them when necessary
will reduce your chances of becoming a victim.
Safety
On The Streets
While you're walking remember:
 | Have
your mom or dad, or both of them, walk your school route with you to make
sure it is safe.
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| When
your mom or dad cannot walk you, walk with a friend. Two heads are better
than one, especially if there's an emergency. Strangers usually pick on
one person.
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| Always
stick to the same route when going and coming from school.
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| Don't
take short cuts.
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| Be
observant as you walk. Be aware of your surroundings. If you think you are
being followed, you can cross the street.
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| If
you think you are in danger, yell "help" and run to the nearest
store or back to school.
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| If
a stranger in a car asks you questions, don't get close to the car (you
could get pulled in) and never get in it.
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| Remember,
a stranger is anyone you and your parents don't know or know well.
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| Some
adults can tell you what to do, such as a teacher or a police officer. But
no adult can tell you what to do just because he or she is older than you.
If you're ever in a situation that makes you feel uncomfortable in any
way, you have the right to say NO, loud and clear.
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| Don't
tell anyone your name and address when you are out walking, and don't
think that because someone knows your name that they know you, maybe
he/she heard someone else call you by name.
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| Establish
a code or secret word that only you and your parents know.
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WARNING: Wearing clothing with your name on the outside tells
strangers who you are.
Safety
At School
| Do
not wear expensive jewelry or clothing.
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| Do
not carry more money than you need.
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| Place
your money in a secure pocket.
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| Do
not stay alone in the hallways between classes.
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Safety
At Play
| Do
not ride your bicycle in deserted areas. Ride in a group, if possible. Do
not ride at night.
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| Do
not stay alone in a playground or recreational area. Play in groups and
walk home in groups. Stay away from dark and wooded area. Do not go into
abandoned buildings.
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| If
something is wrong, scream and run to safety.
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| If
you leave your bicycle outside a store, house, etc., secure it with a good
lock and chain.
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Safety
In Your Apartment Or Home
| Have
your keys ready as you approach your door to enter.
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| Do
not attempt to enter your residence if you see a suspicious person in
front of it or walking behind you. Go to a neighbor you trust.
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| Make
sure your door is always locked. If there is a knock at the door always
acknowledge it.
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| Do
not open your door for strangers, no matter how friendly they seem. If
they want to use your phone in an emergency, make the call for them.
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| If
you are alone in a house try to keep a radio or television turned on to
give the impression that the residence is occupied.
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| Never
tell anyone at the door or on the phone that you are alone. Do not give
out any information.
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