Hanging Out in the Neighborhood

You might think that playing outside in your neighborhood is no big deal, but bad things can happen close home. But if you follow these tips from McGruff, you're on your way to staying safe.

Tell your parents where you are going and when you'll be back. Know your home phone number and address, and your parents' work and cell phone numbers, or write these numbers on a card and carry it with you. That way you can always reach your parents, and they can always reach you.
With your parents help, choose a safe house where you can go if you need help fast, like if you run into a bully or an unusual stranger. If you get lost or need help RIGHT AWAY, run to the closest store or library and tell an adult.
Play where you know it's safe. Stay away from empty buildings, alleys, and other places that might be dangerous. When you can, play with friends. You're always safer in a group.
If anyone, even a friend, offers you drugs or tries to get you to do something you don't want to do, don't do it. Say "no thanks" or "my parents would be so mad." Then make an excuse and get away.
If you see something that doesn't seem right, like a car you don't recognize driving around your block again and again, tell an adult right away. This way you can help keep your neighborhood safe.
Remember the rules about strangers: don't talk to them, don't go anywhere with them, and don't take anything from them. If ANYTHING makes you feel uncomfortable, get away and go to your safe house.

Read how Scruff stays out of trouble in his neighborhood.
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Wrong Street

Find out how McGruff and Scruff help keep their neighborhood safe in Puzzle and Paint game.