In response to the Friday's stranger alert, the district offers some safety tips.

Some Tips from Safety Experts:

Young Students:

*  Never accept rides from or talk to strangers. 

*  -If a driver pulls to the curb to ask directions, avoid getting too close. 

*  Teach your child how to use the telephone and how to call for the police, 911 if available.

*  Don't approach a motor vehicle for someone asking directions. Adults don't need directions from KIDS!

*  If the occupants of a vehicle are stopping you, you should turn and walk in the opposite direction.  The driver will have to turn around or backup to follow.

*  Kids don't take candy from a stranger and your kids need to know you never approach a stranger to see his nice puppy dog in the car.

*  If you think you have been followed home, avoid going to your house, as you don't want the bad guy to know where you live. Go to a neighbor’s house that’s home or nearest business.

*  Set up a code word with your children in the event of an emergency. A friend may have to pick up your child/children somewhere other than school and you need a plan.

*  Your child should know the code word and understand the importance. Your child should be prepared to respond to anyone who knows the code word. Make the word meaningful to your family so a real stranger would not be able to figure it out.

Older Students:
*  If a stranger does approach your child tell them to remember the license plate number of the motor vehicle and to report this information to you immediately.
*  Don't assume it was nothing and discount what your child has to tell you. Call your local police and report any suspicious activity.
*  If you think something is out of the ordinary report it to the Police.  Don't wait until it’s too late.   Information Needed By Police: 

*  Vehicle license No., Make/Model and Color  * Gender and Race of suspect

*  Approximate Age, Weight and Height if known of suspect 

*  Clothing worn by suspect 

*  Length and Color of suspect's hair 

*  Any unusual Marks, Scars, Tattoos, Jewelry, Hat worn, Glasses, etc.  *  Last direction of travel of suspect, either on foot or traveling by motor vehicle.
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*  Kids need to know that unfortunately strangers sometimes purport to be the police and may have with them identification that could fool an adult. -If a police officer needs to speak with your child, in the majority of these contacts the police officer will be in a fully marked squad car with the name of your local community displayed and the officer will be in uniform.

*  The police are aware of these types of encounters and will understand the child may not want to speak with the officer for obvious reasons, especially if the officer is in an unmarked squad and is in civilian dress.