---

You don't have to live in constant fear of being abducted. Many crimes against children can be stopped--you can help to protect yourself. If is important for you to communicate with the right people. Talk to your parents, any grownup-in-charge, or a teacher if anything seems strange or confusing to you. If something makes you uncomfortable, talk to someone about it--even if it seems small!

Remember, it is never too late to ask for help. And, keep asking until you get the help you need. Many people care about you, will listen to you, and will believe you.

1. You have probably heard the warning to, "Stay away from strangers!" Who is a stranger? Even if you have seen someone before hanging around at the playground, in your neighborhood store, or at your school does not mean you know him/her. Yes, you recognize him/her, his/her face is familiar to you, but they are still a stranger. A good rule to follow is--unless your parents have met or know that you are with him/her, he/she is a stranger to you.

   You've got to think about confusing situations or people who might harm you. Even if you do not think of them as a stranger! Remember, we said that people who kidnap kids are not usually different at first. That is why you've got to stay alert and stay away from people you do not know.
   
   

2. Grownups should NOT ask kids to do things that other adults should do for them. This does not mean that if your mother asks you to clean up the kitchen you can say no. What it means is that you should not go, or get in a car, with an adult who, for example, asks you for directions. Grownups should also not ask you to help them find a lost puppy or kitty. Say NO or say, "Wait right here, I'll check with my mom (dad, babysitter,...). Then go get your mom.
   
   
3. If you are in a public place--like a store or park--and you lose your parents or you get lost, do NOT go looking for them. Go right away to the check out counter, the security office, or the lost-and-found section and tell the people in charge that your parents have run off and you need help finding them. Just kidding! Tell them you've been separated from your parents and need their help.
   
   
4. Ask your parents' permission or a grownup-in-charge before:
   • Going anywhere with anybody.
   • Leaving the yard, play area, or going into somebody's home.
   • Catching a ride home with someone.
   • Getting into a car or leaving with anyone -- even if it is someone you know!!!
     

   Once you have gotten their permission:

   • Tell them where you are going.
   • Tell them how you will get there.
   • Tell them who will be going with you.
   • Tell them when you will be back.
   • And get back on time, or call with new information!!
     
     
5. You are more safe when you're with other people and in public places. Use the "buddy system." There is safety in numbers.
   
   
6. Do not take money, gifts, or treats without telling a parent or the grownup-in-charge.
   
   
7. If someone follows you on foot or in a car, STAY AWAY from him or her. You do NOT need to go near the car to talk to the people inside.
   
   
8. If you are in a public place and someone tries to take you somewhere by force, try to get away from him or her and yell or scream:
   • This man is trying to take me away!
   • He/She is not my father (or mother)!