25 Tips to Stay Safe

(from The National Safe Place website.)

SAFE AT HOME

1. Don't let anyone know you're home alone. If a stranger knocks at your door, don't answer it.
2. Make sure all doors and entrances have good lighting and are locked both when you're at home and when you're away.
3. Know what to do in case of an emergency. Keep a list of emergency numbers near the phone.
4. Keep your bike and sports equipment inside the house when they're not in use.
5. Before you leave your house, tell your parent or caregiver where you are going, who you are going to be with and when you plan to return.

SAFE ONLINE

1. Never post or share your personal information online.
2. Only open emails or download pictures, games or documents from people you know.
3. Never meet anyone face to face who you only know online.
4. If you shouldn't say it in person, don't say it online. Delet offensive messages. Don't write it. Don't forward it.
5. Report cyberbullying or other inappropriate messages to trusted adults.

SAFE AT SCHOOL

1. Leave valuables such as jewelry and expensive electronic devices at home.
2. Never leave your backpack or purse unattended and secure your locker at all times.
3. Settle arguments with words, not fists or weapons. If your school doesn't have a conflict mediation program, help start one.
4. Tell a teacher, parent or trusted adult if you're worried about a bully or threats of violence by another student.
5. Everyone plays a role in school safety. Let an adult know if you see or hear something that may bring harm to others.

SAFE IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

1. Stay alert and tuned in to your surroundings wherever you are--at school or the mall, on the street, waiting for a bus or driving.
2. Trust your instincts. If something or someone makes you uneasy, avoid the person or situation and leave as soon as possible.
3. Organize neighborhood cleanup days to send the message that your community is closed to thieves, vandals and loiterers.
4. Participate in or start a neighborhood watch program.
5. Report crime or suspicious activities to the police or an adult you trust.

SAFE IN YOUR RELATIONSHIPS

1. Be clear and honest when communicating with others.
2. Take a break from heated discussion to cool off.
3. Ask for help if you need it.
4. Remove yourself from the situation if you are with someone who makes you uncomfortable. See help from an adult you trust.
5. In dating relationships, you have the right to refuse affection and a responsibility to respect the limits of others.