Tips for Teens

DO NOT RUN AWAY FROM HOME. If things are impossible at home, speak to your teacher or your counselor about it. They will help you. TALK IT OVER WITH A FRIEND WHO CARES. If you feel you have no friends that can help, find a crisis centre in your town. They are there to help, not judge.
Be careful of offers of friendship from strangers. When you are lonely and unhappy, it is easier to be misled by signs of affection from strangers.
Do not accept job offers that seem too good to be true. Use legitimate channels such as Student Placement Offices for your part-time jobs. Check all references.
Do not accept offers to take your photograph & make you famous. Report such offers at home or to police.
Do not get into cars with strangers for any reason or get near enough to occupied vehicles to be grabbed. DO NOT HITCHHIKE.
Travel in a group or with a friend.
Do not go into remote areas at night.
Do not take dares to do foolish things.
Tell your parents where you are going to be and let them know when your plans change.
Do not baby-sit in a home for people you do not know.
If anyone touches you in a way that makes you uncomfortable – TELL.
Report any incident of attempted molestation or if someone is hanging around your school or recreation areas. Learn to give a good description.
Remember, IT IS NOT YOUR FAULT if someone has bothered you, so do not be afraid to tell. Doing so can protect you and others.
Do not linger alone in unsupervised areas – leave with your friends.
Do not open the door to strangers and do not tell people you are alone.
Do not accept offers of drink, cigarettes or drugs.
A date doesn’t give someone the right to touch you or be physically demanding. Your body belongs to you. You have the right to say “NO”.