They try to trick children so they can possibly do bad things to them. Dangerous people can be big or small, old or young. They can be men or women, boys or girls. Pay close attention if someone pays unusual attention to your children. Explain the many situations children may find themselves in where a dangerous person may approach them and the proper action to take.
Children are more likely to respond to someone who knows their name.
Caution your children to never enter a car or home of someone other than a trusted adult whom you have discussed. Explain why they should only play with friends in supervised areas, never in vacant buildings, vacant lots or alleyways. Emphasize that it is OKAY to run away and attract attention by screaming in scary situations. Explain that traditional manners can be ignored at these times. Practice with your children yelling for help.