Child & Teen Safety

Helping kids build safe habits starts early – and lasts a lifetime. Whether they’re walking to school, spending time online, or heading out with friends, a few simple safety tips can go a long way toward keeping kids and teens secure.

Everyday Safety for Kids

  • Walk with a buddy whenever possible and stick to well-lit, familiar routes.
  • Use marked crosswalks and obey crossing signals – remind kids to make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
  • Make sure younger children know their full name, address, and a parent or guardian’s name and phone number.

Did You Know? Practicing “what if” scenarios can help kids feel more prepared without causing fear. It’s a great way to teach problem-solving in a safe, calm way.

Online Safety for Kids & Teens

  • Set boundaries around screen time and talk openly about who they interact with online.
  • Remind kids not to share personal information like their school, address, or real-time location.
  • Encourage them to tell a trusted adult right away if something online makes them uncomfortable.

Smart Smartphone Use for Teens

  • Use privacy settings on apps and social media – and think before posting.
  • Avoid sharing their location publicly or in group chats with people they don’t know.
  • Never meet someone in person who they only know from online.
  • Talk about online scams, phishing messages, and social media impersonation so they can spot red flags early.

Know the Number

Emergency Services
Situations requiring IMMEDIATE ASSISTANCE from Police, Fire or ambulance: call 911

Mental Health Crisis
Situations requiring IMMEDIATE ASSISTANCE by phone from trained mental health counselors: call 988

Crime Check
Non-emergency police services: call 509.456.2233 to report crimes no longer in process or submit crime tips.
Crime Check Online Reporting also available.

City Services
Non-emergency reporting of potholes, graffiti, or unlawful camping, utility billing, and general information on city services: call 311 or report online

Social Services
Social services and community resources like housing, food, and employment help: call 211

For general police email contact:
SPDWebMail@spokanepolice.org

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