Before sending your child to school or to a friend's home, go over this list to make sure you're doing everything to keep your child safe.

* Teach your child to recite his or her name, address and phone number, which could be used in case of an emergency.

* If you must send someone else to pick up your child, have a secret code word and teach your child to always ask for that code word (while standing a safe distance from the vehicle) before getting into anyone else's car.

* Make sure your child understands that he or she should never get in a car with anyone but Mom or Dad. Explain the concept of the "kind" stranger and the stranger who is not a child's friend.

* Make sure your child knows that he or she should not get into cars or go into the houses of neighbours he or she doesn't know very well. If possible go over a list of acceptable neighbours with your child.

* Explain to your child that, if lost or in danger, he or she can locate a pay phone and dial 999.

* Children should know that they do not need money to call 999. At the same time children should also be taught to never ever make prank calls using the 999 number and the consequences of doing so.Teach your child never to use a public restroom alone.

* Make your child understand that it is okay to say "no" to adults.

* Teach you child to be as loud as possible if he or she is in danger.

* Tell your child that it's okay to use physical violence, such as kicking, if he or she needs to protect him or herself from harm.

* Make sure your child knows that when he or she is out with you or any other family member, your child should never exit on his or her own without your prior knowledge.

* Teach your child how to identify a low risk adult from whom your child could seek help if he or she is separated from you in a public place.

* Teach your child to approach a police officer if he or she is in trouble while outdoors. Also ensure that your child is able to identify employee uniforms.

* Ensure that your child knows the body parts that are unacceptable for others to touch and also teach your child the boundaries for physical contact.

* Make sure your child knows to shout "no" or "stop" if someone touches him or her inappropriately.

* Make sure your child understands that even trusted people shouldn't ask your child to do something that makes him or her uncomfortable.

* Finally, assure your child that you trust his or her instincts, and that even if your child makes a bad choice with an innocent stranger, you will support your child.

Your car may be the most expensive thing you own. It is also the most likely target for thieves. Of late we in Sarawak have been faced with an increase in vehicle theft. So we believe this next part would be of special interest to some of you out there. A lot of crime can be stopped. With regards to vehicle theft, among the steps that has to be taken to counter this includes the following:

#Always lock the doors and windows of your car when leaving it and take your valuables with you or lock them in the boot.

#If you have a garage, park your car there. If not, park in a well-lit place.

#Think about fitting a car alarm and a gear lock and having the windows etched with an identification number.

#If you are buying a new radio/cassette player, think about choosing one that is security -coded or removable by the driver.

#In case of motorcycle have a double lock.

#Don't leave valuables, briefcases or even coats on show inside your vehicle. If you cannot take them with you, lock them in the boot. Don’t tuck them behind a seat. (Doesn’t this sound familiar. Well I believe most of us do that don’t we?). Not any more ya!.

#Etch all windows, wing mirrors, light and any radio or hi-fi with the car registration or some

special number. Similarly, security mark other expensive parts with an ultra violet pen. It makes your car a lot harder for thieves to sell.