Overview
Each year thousands of children are victimized by crime. No matter what your age, sex, race, where you live and go to school, you can become a victim of a crime. Wherever you are, always remember to be aware of what is going on around you. The following tips are important for crime prevention.

Be Safe in Your Apartment or House

• Have your keys ready as you approach your door to enter.
• Do not attempt to enter your residence if you see a suspicious person in front of it or walking behind you. Instead go to a neighbor you trust.
• 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.
• 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.
• Never tell anyone at the door or on the phone that you are home alone. Do not give out any information.

Be Safe on the Streets

• Have your mom, dad, or both walk your school route with you to make sure it is safe.
• When your mom or dad cannot walk with you, walk with a friend. Two heads are better than one, especially if there's an emergency. Strangers usually pick on one person.
• Always stick to the same route when going and coming from school.
• Don't take shortcuts.
• Be observant as you walk. If you think you are being followed, you can cross the street.
• If you think you are in danger, yell for help and run to the nearest store or back to school.
• If a stranger in a car asks you questions, don't get close to the car, and never get in.
• Remember, a stranger is anyone you and your parents don't know or know well.
• 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 they heard someone else call you by name.
• Establish a code or secret word that only you and your parents know.

View tips for being safe at school and while playing.