All parents want to keep their children safe. Since school is back in session, this is a perfect opportunity to talk to your children about what to do if they encounter a stranger and some preventive measures.

Some safety tips every child should know:

• Never get into any car unless you personally tell him or her to do so.
• Stay away from anyone who follows him or her on foot or in a car.
• Never allow anyone to touch them on any parts of their body.
• If grabbed, twist their body and scream, “This is not my dad or my mom!”
• Always use the “buddy system,” and don’t allow anyone they do not know to take their picture.
• Never accept candy, toys or any kind of gift from anyone without a parent's permission.

Inform your child never to eat anything that they receive from anyone that they do not know. Tell your child to yell, scream, and quickly get away from anyone that tries to take him or her anywhere. Adults who need help should not be asking a child for help or directions; they should be asking other adults.

Your child should always report these incidents to you and you should report them to the Police Department.

It is a good idea to practice a “special” yell that is loud and long to bring attention to your child if they encounter this situation.

As a parent or guardian, take the initiative to be informed. Know where the child offenders live in your neighborhood and around your local schools. State websites have a wealth of information on registered child offenders all in one place, including photos, addresses, degree of criminal offenses, and distinguishable markings.