Putnam City Teaches Kids about Stranger Danger

News9.com

PUTNAM CITY, Oklahoma --  As students prepare for a new school year, the Putnam City School District is encouraging parents to talk with their children about personal safety.

Each year, counselors visit Putnam City elementary schools to teach kids about ‘stranger danger,' and they want parents to reinforce those lessons at home.

"Parents and schools both should educate children about personal safety. Children need to learn what choices help keep them safe. They need to be taught to be smart, not scared, in case they ever find themselves in a situation of concern," said Lee Roland, principal at Tulakes Elementary School.

Principal Roland said there are some basic safety tips all elementary children should know:

• Walk in groups and do not engage in conversation with strangers
• Avoid any people you do not know
• Do not respond to or accept offers or requests made by strangers (i.e. help me find my pet, etc.)
• Never take candy, money or gifts from a stranger.
• Never get into a car with anyone you don't know.
• Don't tell your name or address to a stranger.Immediately report to your school, families and police any approach made to you by a stranger
• After school, go directly home from school and check in with parents

The district said parents should not avoid the topic because the knowledge will help children make smart choices and stay safe.  The first day of school in the Putnam City school district is August 19.