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First, on Tuesday, Nov. 1, a middle school student reported that a man exposed himself to her while she was walking to class, prompting the department to assign additional officers to the area to ensure student safety.
The following day, on Wednesday, Nov. 2, a Lansdowne High School student reported that while she was walking to school over the footbridge, near Twin Circle Way she was assaulted by an unknown assailant.
Police say that she was able to get to school and report what happened.
"The department is also working closely with the Baltimore County Public School System to address community concerns and provide resources," a spokesperson for the agency said.
"Families are being asked to speak with students about safety practices as they travel to and from school."
The Baltimore County Police Department issued a series of tips for children to help keep them safe in the wake of the two incidents:
- Always tell a responsible adult where you are going;
- Try not to walk anywhere alone. Walk with a friend or a group;
- Don’t take shortcuts through the woods, a back street, or an empty lot;
- Do not share personal information with strangers – in person, over the phone, through text messages, on gaming platforms, or on any other electronic communications;
- Pay attention to your surroundings when walking home. Avoid distractions and make sure you can hear what is happening around you;
- If approached by someone you don’t know, run to safety;
- Know safe places you can go – a police or fire station, the library, a store, or a friend’s house;
- If a stranger follows you or grabs for you, yell loudly! Shout, “I don’t know you!” Fight back and make as much noise as you can;
- Tell your parents about places you don’t feel safe.
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