Introduction
We are fortunate to live in a lovely part of the country, however we need to be mindful that there are a number of potential dangers for our children within the local area. One of these is the potential harm that may come from meeting strangers. Thankfully, incidents such as this are incredibly rare in Etwall, however it pays to be vigilent, hence our reason for highlighting it here. With that in mind, please see below for some resources that you may wish to go through with your child.
Top Tips
- Never go off on your own with a stranger, take things from them or get in a car with them.
- If someone scares you, or makes you feel uncomfortable go somewhere safe, which could be your home, your school or a police station. Remember to tell someone what has happened straight away.
- Never accept gifts or sweets from a stranger.
- Never accept a lift in a car from a stranger
- Never go anywhere with a stranger.
- Never go off on your own without telling a parent or trusted adult.
- Never go up to a car to give directions - keep away so that no one can get hold of you and you can run away.
- Always tell a trusted adult if you have been approached by a stranger.
- Remember the Yell, Run, Tell rule - it's okay to run and scream if you find yourself in danger. Get away from the source of danger as fast as you can.
- If you find yourself in danger always run towards shops or other busy places with lots of people.
- If you think that you are being followed, go into a shop and ask for help.
- Never play in dark or lonely places.
- Stay with your group of friends – new wander off on your own.
- Never agree to do a job for someone you don’t know in return for money- they may be trying to trick you.
- Always use the safest route to walk to school avoiding isolated places and dangerous roads to cross.
- Make sure your parents know where you are going and when you will be back. If your plans change be sure to tell your parents.
The video below on Stranger Danger is designed to highlight a few key points, to be used to help you have that important conversation with your child, pupil or class. It is aimed at aged 4 - 11 years. For parents, carers, families, teachers, schools and centres for young people to use to raise awareness and generate discussion that helps children keep safe.
We would advise you to talk about who your safe adults are and where there are safe places near you if help is needed. It’s also important to think about safety on the internet and use of mobile phone apps (Pokémon Go) and games that have ‘chat’ functions as this can be just as dangerous as a stranger in the street.
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