Full Notification

<p>IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM THE NEW JERSEY STATE POLICE:</p>

<p>It&rsquo;s Not #CreepyClowns that Parents Should be Worried About</p>

<p>There&rsquo;s been a lot of talk about creepy clown sightings these days. It&rsquo;s true. Recently in both North and South Carolina, there have been reported sightings of, for lack of a better term, creepy clowns prowling around neighborhoods, scaring children. Some reports claim that these clowns could be a publicity stunt while others claim that these people have a much more sinister intent, which is supported by reports of some attempting to lure kids closer with money.</p>

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<p>Well, we know that there are a lot of good, hard-working clowns right here in Jersey. Heck, you might even work with one or two (wink). Of course, it&rsquo;s probably their part-time job, unless you all work for a circus. With that being said, we&rsquo;re happy to report no suspicious or creepy clown activity here in Jersey</p>

<p>But these recent event gives us an opportunity to talk about safety tips that you can give your kids. After all, the kids are back in school, which means many are walking to and from home. You see, a scary-looking clown beckoning children closer may be all that is needed to have your child do the right thing, which is to walk in the other direction. It&rsquo;s the unassuming person, man or woman, who your child should be wary of. Here are some tips:</p>

<p>*Talk to your kids</p>

<p>*Tell them who they can expect to come and get them in an emergency (family member or close friend)</p>

<p>*When walking to school, there is strength in numbers&mdash;walk in a group</p>

<p>*Never get into a stranger&rsquo;s car</p>

<p>*Keep a safe distance from strangers asking for directions or help</p>

<p>*Tell your kids to yell, scream and kick if grabbed by a stranger</p>

<p>*Look around, stop looking for Pokemon&mdash;be aware of your surroundings</p>

<p>*If a stranger claims to be a cop but is not in uniform, kids should find a trusted adult</p>

<p>Let&rsquo;s talk about that last tip for a minute. Are your kids familiar with the faces of the local police? Don&rsquo;t just rely on the cops visiting schools. Drop by a station anytime to have your kids meet your local police who patrol your area! It&rsquo;s a great way get to know the officers and for the officers to get to know you and your kids!</p>

<p>For all of the coulrophobics out there, we apologize for the pic, but it was necessary. Sadly, at the end of the day, if all of the bad people out there stuck out as much as a person dressed as a clown, we wouldn&rsquo;t have write posts like this.</p>

<p>Be safe, people!</p>
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