Advice for parents.
CB radio and safety.
When using CB, remember that it is not private. Anyone could be listening, many
listen in without saying a word.
It is unwise to give out personal details such as real name, address, or 'phone
number. Most contacts will be local, and they may turn up on your doorstep within
minutes. This has happened before.
If you must agree to meet someone from on the CB, please do not go alone.
Tracking.
It is not always necessary that you give your location, some people may track you
down using their CB in a car. When talking to people you don't know, always be
aware of the signal meter on the radio. If it continues to rise, they are getting
closer - are they passing through or may they be trying to track you down?
It should be noted that this takes some time, as they move around the streets
looking for your signal, so you would notice them close for a while.
Tracking people in this way is also part of a game, played by CB users for many
years. One person hides in their car, the others have to find them.
Children and CB.
CB can be a wonderful way of
communicating locally and, unlike the telephone, it is free to use.
As with the Internet, you cannot be sure who is at the other end of a
conversation. Unlike the Internet, contacts will not be far away, and could
appear on your doorstep within minutes, so care should be taken. The majority
of
CB users will be friendly
and helpful but, as with any other part of life, there are always dangers.
Remember not to give out your name, address, or telephone over the CB... you
don't know how many people are listening.
CB clubs or "eyeballs" can be a
great way of meeting other CBers, without giving away where you live.
