As parents, we do the best that we can to keep our kids safe.
We talk to them about crossing the street and wearing a bicycle helmet.
We warn them of the dangers of strangers, drugs, alcohol and the unknown.
We install elaborate home alarm systems to keep them out of harm's way and do our best to keep a watchful eye on them as much as we can.
Unfortunately, today's world presents more danger to children than ever.
Predators could be lurking anywhere, so we must remain alert.
But in one specific area, parents often fall short in keeping predators away - the internet.
Though the World Wide Web can be an excellent educational and information tool, it is not an entirely benevolent entity.
It can be and often is misused as a way for those with bad intentions to get to unsuspecting children.
The internet can be a way for someone to get to our sons and daughters without sever stepping foot near them, without setting off expensive home alarm systems or piquing any uncertain interest from parents.
That's why it's important to be especially watchful when it comes to this issue.
A first step is to set limits to computer time and purpose.
While chances are that your child won't follow your instructions all of the time, he or she will pause to think before acting.
Designate for what purposes the internet may be used - and for what purposes it may not.
Talk about the possible dangers of chat rooms and online social networking, and make sure that kids don't put phone numbers, addresses or other personal information on their Facebook or MySpace pages.
Many parents also now install parental control features in their computers, keeping kids away from non-child-friendly content.
This is a great idea, but be wary of depending upon it too much.
Kids today are more technologically savvy than ever.
It's possible that they'll be able to scoot around whatever barricades you've set up.
Furthermore, parental control software is not always perfect - certain things may slip by.
Try to stay close while your kids are online, and talk to them about they're doing while they're connected.
Talking about the internet, especially with teens, can also be a great way to initiate conversation.
If you think something fishes going on, go ahead and investigate.
Though snooping in e-mails and pictures may be borderline personal-space violation, when it comes to your child's safety, it's OK to bend the rules a little.
There's no need to go too far, but having a look at websites visited and conversation histories may set your mind at ease or alert you to a possible problem.
That said, even though your snooping and investigating is for your child's benefit, try not to get caught.
The thought of our children can be a scary one, but it doesn't have to be.
In fact, computer control is really just another aspect of home security.