Warren County Health Services wants to remind parents to teach their kids about stranger danger, and being aware of their surroundings and keeping their minds on being healthy and safe. Director Dr. Joelle Stolte tells KNIA News parents should teach their children about situational awareness and stranger danger.

“Make sure that kids are aware that sometimes the world is not always safe, but it can be as long as they are prepared. Warn children about accepting rides or changing plans without your parental permission. Establish a code word with your children with any trusted relative or friend in case they do need to be picked up in case of an emergency.”

Dr. Stolte said a big suggestion is to avoid personalizing clothes or backpacks, or anything with your child’s name on it, as that can put the child in a vulnerable situation.