Summer is so fabulous in Florida.  The kids are hitting the pools and the parks to enjoy the warm weather, and many times, they are going sans parents.  Arm them with the knowledge they need to stay safe.

CHILDREN

• Always check first with your parents, guardians, or the trusted adult in charge before you go anywhere or do anything. Be sure to check in regularly with your parents, guardians, or a trusted adult when you're not with them.
• Always take a friend and use the buddy system when playing or going anywhere.
• Don't be tricked by people who offer you special treats or gifts. Never accept anything from anyone without your parents' or guardians' permission.
• Stay safer when you're home alone by keeping the door locked; not opening the door or talking to anyone who stops by unless the person is a trusted family friend or relative and the visit has been pre-approved by your parents or guardian. Never tell anyone who calls that you're home alone.
• Don't wear clothes or carry items with your name on the outside, and don't be confused just because a person you don't know calls out your name.
• Don't be afraid to say no and get away from any situation that makes you feel scared, uncomfortable, or confused. Trust your feelings, and make sure you tell a trusted adult is anything happens that makes you feel uncomfortable.
  
  PARENTS
  
• Be sure to go over the rules with your children.
• Make sure children know their full names, address, and telephone numbers and how to use the telephone. Be sure they know what to do in case of an emergency.
• Don't drop your children off at malls, movies, video arcades, or parks unsupervised. These are not safe places for children to be left alone.
• Check out camps and other summer programs before enrolling your children. Make sure background screening is completed on all individuals working with the children. Make sure there will be adult supervision at all times and make sure you are aware of all activities and field trips.
• Always listen to your children and keep the lines of communication open. Your children are your best source for determining if everything is okay. Teach your children to get out of dangerous or uncomfortable situations right away and practice basic safety skills with them. Make sure they know they can tell you about anything that makes them feel scared, uncomfortable, or confused.