As parents in the Washington D.C. area are warned about the safety of their children, some parents in Freeport had a chance to hear street-smart tips from an expert in the field.

Chicago detective J.J. Bittenbinder spoke to a group of about one hundred tonight giving tips about how to keep kids, and adults, safe.

J.J. Bittenbinder says the scene in Washington D.C. could happen just as easily in Rockford. And he has tips on how to keep our children safe.

Arbie and Greg Boyer attended the street smart meeting with the sniper attacks in mind.

But there are everyday things that Bittenbinder offers suggestions. One tip he gives is for women carrying purses, he says purses should be carried across the body if possible and always have your hand guarding it.

Bittenbinder says if you prevent a crime from happening in the first place, police will never have to worry about solving a crime.