You have to getting the message across by about the age of three, you can start teaching children some simple safety rules - particularly road safety.
By Showing them secure places to play and where not to play such as rivers or busy roads and explain what makes them dangerous.
Another vital safety rule is Never go off with anyone you don't know even another child without checking with mum or dad first.
As they get older, make sure your children know their full name, address and telephone number. They may not confidently remember these until they're about five or six, so check periodically whether they remember them.
You should also teach your child how to ask for and get help.
There are lots of things you can do to keep your child safe. Here are some ideas:
Encourage coping and independence from an early age Let your child take some risks in a controlled way to build confidence, for example going to the corner shop while you follow some distance behind Allow lots of time for free play and messing about with other children - don't restrict them to adult-supervised activities Encourage good communication about what yor child and her friends can do together If your child's afraid of trying new things, work at developing a 'can-do' attitude With more robust children, explain that some risks are just too dangerous and negotiate safe, agreed boundaries If possible, get together with other adults in your neighbourhood to take active steps to look out for the safety of each other's children