Halton police are taking advantage of the annual international Safer Internet Day (Tuesday, Feb.11) to draw attention to the online activities of youths and the potential dangers they face.
This year's campaign will specifically look at educating the public about online activities, which are popular with children and youth of different age groups, the potential risks children and youth encounter when using certain technologies, and ways to talk to children about the difference between healthy and unhealthy relationships.
"Our youth are our future, and it is our responsibility to educate them about the pros and cons of Internet use," said Det. Raf Skwarka of the Halton Police Internet Child Exploitation Unit.
"Be aware of your children' Internet activities and spend time learning about the Internet yourself. Your credibility will go a long way in having your child take you seriously."
Skwarka advises parents to communicate openly and honestly with their children; discuss the possible dangers and impacts of Internet use; take time to know what their children are doing online; be involved in their children's Internet interests and build a trusting relationship; and resist the temptation to break into personal e-documents, email or browser history.
"By invading the privacy of older children, you may find evidence of a significant problem, but you will also create a serious breach of trust that could inhibit open communication between you and your teen," said Skwarka.
"If you feel driven to this extreme, chances are you have already seen enough clues to attempt talking to your child about your concerns."
For more information visit www.haltonpolice.ca/SpecializedUnits/CriminalInvestigations/ICE/Pages/default.aspx.
Residents can also seek help from national programs dedicated to the personal safety of children including:
•www.cybertip.ca Canada's tipline to report the online sexual exploitation of children;
•www.MissingKids.ca a national missing children resource and response centre;
•www.kidsintheknow.ca an interactive child personal safety program for children in Kindergarten to Grade 9
•www.commit2kids.ca a program to help child-serving organizations create safer environments for the children in their