The computer, specifically the Internet, has truly opened the doors of information. Unfortunately, the same information source has opened the doors to predators, many of whom prey upon our children.

A concern of the police department and presumably all parents, is that offenders are able to operate from the concealment afforded them by chat lines. Through these means they are able to lure children into extremely dangerous situations.

The chief recommends that parents discuss the following guidelines with their children. Just as parents familiarize themselves with the neighborhood in which their children play outdoors, so should they familiarize themselves with computer “neighborhood” navigated by their children.

* Do not give personal information such as your address, telephone number, parents’ work address or telephone number, or the name and location of your school

* Tell your parents if something that you come across online makes you feel uncomfortable

*Never agree to get together with someone you “meet” on line without your parents permission. If your parents agree to the meeting, be sure the meeting is in a public place and that you bring them along

* Never respond to messages or bulletin board items that are suggestive, obscene, belligerent, threatening, or make you feel uncomfortable. Give a copy of such messages to your parents and have them forward it to your Internet service provider.

* Never send pictures of yourself or any other personal material to a friend you meeting on line without telling your parents first.

* Follow the rules that your parents set for your online activities

* There are places on the Internet that are for adults only. If you find yourself in one of those areas leave and go to one of the cool places on the Internet for kids.