Protecting Children during the Holidays: Beware of Dangers

The holidays can present potentially dangerous situations for children. Some simple prevention measures can help keep your children safe during the season.


The holiday season is a time when busy people can become careless and vulnerable to theft and other holiday crime. The following tips from the Los Angeles Police Department Crime Prevention Section can help you be more careful, prepared and aware during the holiday season.


    * If possible, leave small children at home with a trusted babysitter.


    * Teach your child to go to a store clerk and ask for help in case your child is separated from you.


    * Teach children to stay close to you at all times while shopping.


    * Never allow children to make unaccompanied trips to the restroom.


    * Children should never be allowed to go to the car alone and they should never be left alone in the car.


    * Teach children their full name, address and telephone number to give to police officers or mall security. Teach children to immediately inform you if a stranger is bothering them.


Source: Seattle Crime Prevention Pamphlet ©2005