"Summer Safety Tips for Parents and Guardians"

Only another few weeks and the kids will be out of school. Where did this
year go? It feels like I was "school shopping for clothes and supplies" only
a couple of weeks ago. We had better start getting ready now or the last day of school will be here, and we won't be prepared. I'd like to share a few thoughts and potential "dinner topics" with you to get you warmed up for summer. Talk with your children, and we will discuss summer break a few more times before the big event starts.

1. Be sure to go over the rules with your children about whose homes they may visit when your not there and discuss the boundaries of where they may and may not go in the neighborhood.

2. Don't drop your children off at malls, movies, arcades, or parks. These are not safe places for children to be alone. Make certain a responsible adult supervises your younger children at all times when they are outside and away from home.

3. Make sure your children know to stay away from pools, canals, or other bodies of water without adult supervision.

4.  Teach your children in whose vehicle they may ride. Children should be told to never approach any vehicle, occupied or not, unless accompanied by a parent, guardian, or other trusted adult.

5. Make sure children know their full names, address, and telephone numbers. Fill out a FREE Street Smart Kidz Phone List and I.D.Kit.

6. Caution children to keep the door locked and not open the door or talk to anyone who comes to the door when they are home alone. If you have arranged for a friend or relative to stop by, make sure your children feel comfortable being alone with that person. Make sure they understand not to tell anyone who calls they are home alone.

7. Daylight last longer during summer months, be sure your children know their curfew and to check in with you if they are going to be late. Remember reflective clothing.

8. Choose babysitters with great care! Get at least three references. Observe how your kids interact with them. When the babysitter leaves, ask your children what they did during your absence.

9. Check out camp and other summer programs before you enroll your children. Ask if a background screening check is completed on all employees working with and around the children. Make sure a adult will be present at all times.

10. Always listen to your children and work at keeping the communication lines open. Your children are your best source for determining if everything is okay.