Wednesday, May 26, 2010

Student Safety is Top Priority

School Police Share Tips That Help Protect Children

The safety and well-being of our students and staff are a top priority. In response to the Chelsea King and Amber Dubois tragedies, School Police has compiled a list of simple, common sense tips that can help protect children and adults against stranger abduction or attack. Please read these tips carefully and share with students, staff, parents and community members:
  1. Don’t walk or run alone, when possible. Go with a family member, friend and/or a dog.
  2. Always tell someone where you are going and how long you’ll be gone.
  3. Walk or run in highly-visible, well-populated, well-lighted areas. Avoid alleys, canyons, wooded areas and other isolated areas.
  4. Be aware of your surroundings and pay attention to your instincts. If an area or a situation doesn’t feel right, leave immediately.
  5. Don’t become so distracted by your iPod or radio that you lose focus of your immediate environment. Keep the volume low so you can hear everything around you. Using only one earbud/headphone and keeping one ear free is strongly recommended.
  6. If you have a cell phone, bring it with you.
  7. Have personal identification with you that contains a phone number of an emergency contact as well as information about any allergies or other conditions that may be needed by a paramedic.
  8. If you find yourself in trouble, scream loudly to attract attention. Run towards people, a school, or open business.
  9. Be extra cautious at night.
Additional tips on child safety can be found on the San Diego Police Department website at http://www.sandiego.gov/police/prevention/childsafety.shtml .
For more information or with questions, please contact School Police Lt. Paula Rivera at (619) 725-7002 or privera@sandi.net .