Scruff McGruff is McGruff the Crime Dog's nephew, a child figure whose adventures help children learn to make appropriate decisions about issues such as bullies, drugs, weapons, violence and dangerous strangers. Scruff McGruff wants parents to make time to talk to kids about drugs. Don't just tell kids to say "no" to drugs - Give them something to say "yes" to. Encourage children to participate in positive, healthy activities like sports, clubs or volunteer work in the community.

Scruff and Friends from

Brockville Montessori School

Scruff McGruff's 10 Things Kids Can Do To Stop Violence:

1. Settle arguments with words, not fists or weapons. Do not stand around and form an audience when others are arguing. A group makes a good target for violence.
2. Learn safe routes for walking in the neighbourhood, and know good places to seek help. Trust feelings, and if there's a sense of danger - get away fast!
3. Report any crimes or suspicious actions to the police, school authorities and parents
4. Don't open the door to anyone that you don't know and trust.
5. Never go anywhere with someone that you don't know and trust.
6. If someone tries to abuse you, say "No", get away, and tell a trusted adult. Remember - it's not the victim's fault.
7. Don't use alcohol or other drugs and stay away from places and people associated with them.
8. Stick with friends who are also against violence and drugs, and stay away from known trouble stops.
9. Get involved to make school safer and better with poster contests against violence, counseling peers and settling disputes peacefully.
10. Help younger children learn to avoid being crime victims. Set a good example and volunteer to help with community efforts to stop crime.

Sgt. Doug Locke with friends from Commonwealth P.S.