Whether you are a parent, a school principal, a guidance counselor, a coach in community sports, a classroom teacher, an adult working with youth groups, or a law enforcement officer, you influence children and teach them the skills to survive in an ever-changing world.

It is becoming more and more difficult to protect children from the violence, drugs, and other crime they see every day at home, in their schools and neighborhoods, on TV, and in other media. Parents -- and others who serve in a parental role -- should not be alone in the battle to provide safe environments for growing children. Parents need a great deal of support from all members of the community -- schools, law enforcement, social service agencies, and others.

We have included information on this page for parents and other adults to help guide children in keeping safe. There are also safety tips that will benefit all ages .