SUMMER TIME TO GIVE CHILDREN A SAFETY CHECK

JACKSON -- Parents should take special steps to ensure their children's safety over the summer, Cape Girardeau County Sheriff John Jordan said.

The summer is when children have the most free time with less supervision.

Jordan said parents should remind children not to enter a stranger's car or house, or to accept gifts from strangers or let a stranger touch them or join them in play. Children should know to tell their parents about any unusual actions of adults they see.

If children see a friend get into a stranger's car, they should get the car's license number and a description, if possible.

Children should play in groups, never alone or in vacant buildings or alleys.

Jordan also encouraged parents to check the background of summer baby sitters or anyone who has charge of their children in their absence.