Kids, we want to help you make smart choices by teaching you how to play it safe. 

Be a Wise Walker

Always cross the street at a crosswalk.

Children under age 10 should never cross the street without a grown-up. Follow these simple steps:

• STOP at the curb.
• Look left, then right, the left again.
• Once it's clear, keep looking left to right as you cross.
• Keep your ears open for the sound of moving vehicles.
• Never walk between parked cars to cross the street.

Need a Boost?

Most elementary school age kids do. Ride in the back seat, in a booster until you are:

• 80 lbs. or
• 4'9" tall or
• 8 years old

Riding in a booster seat is a Missouri law. Make sure your seat is the proper fit.

• Shoulder strap should cross the middle of you chest and shoulder, not your neck.
• Lap belt should cross your hips, not your belly.

Peer Pressure

Be your own person and make smart choices. You don't have to do what others are doing just to fit in.

Say "no" to bad choices, such as drugs, smoking, bullying and stealing. True friends will never pressure you and will always stand behind your decisions. Do the same for them.

Pet Safety

Pets are cute and cuddly, but many are unpredictable.

• Never pet a stray animal.
• Always ask the owner if you may approach their pet.
• Do not disturb pets while they are eating.
• Never take a toy from an animal.
• Steer clear of fighting animals.
• Never sneak up on a pet.

Helmet Safety

Roller skating, bicycling, skateboarding, riding your scooter - no matter what kind of wheels you're on, ALWAYS WEAR YOUR HELMET.

Ensure a proper fit.

• Make sure your helmet is designed for your age.
• Adjust the straps and inside padding for a snug fit.
• Check that the helmet does not move side-to-side or front to back.

Smoking

The number one bad choice many kids make is trying cigarettes. Smoking is not cool and is harmful.
Smoking:

• slows you down physically
• is bad for your health - especially your heart and lungs
• turns your teeth and fingernails yellow
• makes your skin wrinkly
• causes you to smell really bad.

Challenge your friends to say "no" too.

Dialing 911

Talk to your family about possible emergency situations.

• Write 911 on a piece of paper near your phone.
• Be able to recite your full name and address.
• Use your house phone to call 911 instead of a cell phone.
• If you need to call 911 when you're not home, look for green road signs to help describe your location.

Germs are Icky!

Hand washing is your best defense against getting sick. Wash your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds. Always wash your hads after:

• using the restroom
• playing with pets
• being outside
• blowing your nose
• handling money
• and BEFORE you eat.

Use anitbacterial lotion or wipes when you're on the go.

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