Checklist

We realise that children can be vulnerable sometimes, so here's a quick safety checklist, suggested by leading children's charity Kidscape which works UK-wide to help keep children safe from harm.

Keeping safe in sport

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF), have jointly published a leaflet giving parents, guardians and carers advice on keeping children safe in sport.

Finding each other

When out and about visiting places, always arrange a meeting point for you and your kids, in case any of you get lost.

Playing after school

Always make sure your kids tell you where they are going and arrange a set time for them to be home - explain that this is for their safety, not because you're trying to ruin their fun!

Public transport

Make sure you all travel together in the same train carriage, or have seats close together on a bus or coach. If your kids are travelling on their own, tell them to sit near other families.

Public toilets

Always go with your kids into the public toilets. If they'll be on their own or with friends, make sure they know not to talk to strangers.

Lifts

Tell your kids ideally only to use lifts with friends, or not to feel worried about getting out if they feel uncomfortable about someone else being in there.

Mobile Phones

If your kids do have mobiles, make sure they don't show them off, as they could be mugged for them.

Emergency money

If your kids are making their own way home after school clubs or playing with friends, make sure they always have some emergency money that can be used to phone you, or get a bus rather than walk. Explain how important it is not to spend this on other things, such as sweets.

Your telephone numbers

Make sure your kids know, or have a list of all your telephone numbers, including home, work, mobile and friends - so that they, or other adults can get in contact with you if they need to.

Be safe, be seen

If your kids are cycling or walking home in the dark, make sure they have lights or a torch and a coat or shoes with reflective strips on - it can still look really cool! And a protective helmet is a must when cycling.

Internet safety

Internet access at public libraries is protected, so that kids can't access dangerous websites.

But when your kids are using the internet at home or at friends' houses, make sure they are aware of the potential dangers with making friends in internet chat rooms.

Also take advantage of your internet service provider's parental control facilities. These prevent your children from being exposed to 'adult' and illegal information.

Find out more from:

Childline
The free 24 hour helpline for children and young people in the UK.
Telephone 0800 1111

Childnet International
Helping to make the internet a great and safe place for children.
Telephone 020 7639 6967

Kidscape
Helping to prevent bullying and child abuse.
Telephone 020 7730 3300

thinkuknow
The inside info on how to stay safe while having fun online.