Do You Know What Apps Your Kids Are Using? Manchester Forum Focuses On Safety Issues

There’s an old television commercial that asks, “It’s 10 p.m. Do you know where your children are?”

Nowadays, the better question might be, “Do you know what app they’re using?”

On Monday, Oct. 6, the Manchester Township Police Department will continue its “Staying Safe In Manchester” series with a presentation for parents and children about staying safe while using popular websites and smartphone apps, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Manchester branch of the Ocean County Library, 21 Colonial Dr.

Manchester Detective Adam Emmons and Donna M. Parsons, an expert on internet safety, will show Manchester residents how they can stay safe while using the latest technologies.

“It’s important for parents and children to stay current in this new age of technology while surfing the internet,” Emmons said in a news release. “This presentation will provide information on the current trends and precautions parents and children should be aware of.”

In addition to explaining Internet safety and ways to combat the growing issue of cyber bullying, Emmons will highlight ways residents can protect themselves while using social media websites and smartphone apps.

Registration is requested and can be completed by calling 732-657-7600 or visiting www.theoceancountylibrary.org. Each safety session includes a question and answer period.

A Public Safety representative will be on hand to help residents enroll in the NIXLE emergency notification system. This system is used by officials in Manchester and throughout the state to instantly update residents about emergency situations through text message and email alerts. Online NIXLE registration is available through www.Manchesterpolicenj.com.

The final “Staying Safe in Manchester Township” library session will be held on Monday, Nov. 17, and focus on driver and traffic safety. Officers will speak about staying safe on the roads and the initiatives aimed at preventing dangerous crashes.

Each “Staying Safe in Manchester Township” session is scheduled from 6 to 8 p.m., one Monday per month, and is open to all ages. Those who attend all sessions will receive a certificate of completion.