#YouthDay: How to be safe and avoid being preyed on
Attention all teens and young adults! Learn how to avoid being preyed on via social media, and stay safe when out on the town/ if you are home alone on Youth Day.
“June is Youth Month and provides an opportunity to celebrate, focus on and discuss all things youth-related, including education, employment and lifestyle. But a very important topic that must also be addressed during this period is safety,” said Stuart Clarkson, Fidelity ADT’s managing executive.
“Safety is a priority and must be top of mind for everyone, particularly teenagers and young adults who are especially vulnerable to crime.”
Streetwise teens know that they do not have to leave home to be at risk. Clarkson said knowing and applying basic safety advice can show them that staying safe can be easy, improve their awareness and help them take control in challenging situations.
Social media and the internet
The internet has made communication faster and more fun, but it also makes it easier for predators to approach vulnerable teens.
It is important that youngsters:
• Never include personal information on social media forums, blogs or websites
• Do not agree to meet online contacts in person
• Block anyone who makes them feel uneasy
• Think about the information they post online and do not post comments that could embarrass them or hurt and offend others.
• Get the ‘OK’ from their parents before they download content or shop online. Many items are copyrighted, and credit card details may be at risk when buying from an unsecured site.
Staying safe while out on the town
Many young adults may find it easy to lose track of time when they’re out having a good time with their friends. Following these tips will ensure that they can still have fun and get home safely:
• Go out in a group and stick with friends
• Never go anywhere with, or accept a drink from, a stranger
• Tell your parents where you are going and keep to the agreed curfew
• Make sure you have a safe ride home with a designated driver
• Ensure your cellphone is always on and call home if you find yourself in an uncomfortable situation
• Keep your ‘locate your device’ activated in case of any emergencies
If you are home alone
• Make sure you know how the home alarm system works and what the pass codes are
• If you are home alone and the alarm is disarmed, ensure that the security gates and doors to the outside are locked
• If your parents are away overnight, have the number of a neighbour or relative at hand in case of an emergency
• Never leave younger siblings home alone, even for a short time
