Parent to Parent: Stranger danger

Summertime means a lot of outdoor time for children, but it can also mean kids coming into contact with more dangers.

Officer David Marquez, Mass General Hospital Security
"In most cases it's strangers. We need to keep our eyes and ears open. We just don't know who could cause our kids harm."

So before you hit the beach or a ball game, here's some safety tips.

Parents should pick a safety point where kids can go if they get lost in the crowd.

Officer David Marquez, Mass General Hospital Security
"If it's a store were there's a register area, security area; maybe at the beach where there's a lifeguard."

Marie-Paule Bondat, Grandmother
"It does make me feel better and safer."

Show kids how to pick out a person who can protect them, like a police officer, security guard or another parent.

Officer David Marquez, Mass General Hospital Security
"If there's a woman with children that is a safe haven that is somewhere you can go that. Someone who will take care of you."

Protect kids with a secret password.

Officer David Marquez, Mass General Hospital Security
"For example, if you go to pick up my children, I know for a fact, unless I give you that password, they will not go with you."

By following this plan, parents can keep their kids safe and focus on fun in the sun.

We all know kids can be loud. Teach them if a stranger approaches them to use that skill and scream as loud as they can for help.

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