Yesterday we published an alert from an Arbor Heights mom who wanted to let families know that her daughter had been followed from a Denny International Middle School-dropoff stop at 100th/44th on Tuesday. This afternoon, Denny principal Jeff Clark has sent us the notice sent home today to families of students at his school and adjacent Chief Sealth International High School:

Dear Denny and Chief Sealth Scholars and Families,

Yesterday afternoon, one of our 6th grade female scholars reported to us that she was followed by a man in his car while she walked home from her bus stop in Arbor Heights near the intersection of SW 100th St. and 44th Ave SW. She reported that the man seemed to be in his 20s and had short black hair. His car was a black four-door sedan. Our scholar did a great job by running off and telling her mother, who contacted the Seattle Police Department.

As a precaution, we are reminding our scholars about safety tips for walking to and from school. We would appreciate your help by having a similar conversation at home. The walking safety advice includes:

GENERAL SAFETY TIPS
· Pay close attention to your surroundings, avoid “automatic pilot.”

· Walk with a purpose; project an assertive, business-like image.

· Use common sense; plan your route to avoid uninhabited parks, parking lots, garages and alleyways.

· Stick to well-lit areas.

· Develop a plan before you see trouble. Crossing a street or entering a store may get you out of a potentially bad situation.

· If a car follows you or beckons you while you are walking, do not approach it. Instead, turn and quickly walk the opposite direction.

· Consider wearing clothing and shoes that you can move freely and quickly in, especially when walking or waiting for the bus.

· Carry minimal items; overloading yourself can make you appear vulnerable.

· Always plan your route and stay alert to your surroundings. Avoid shortcuts. Walk confidently. Scan your surroundings and make eye contact with people.

· Avoid walking alone at night. As much as possible, walk or travel with a friend, even during the daytime.

As always, thank you for your help and partnership!