Use common sense: You know right from wrong, so use your instincts to make your fundraiser a success.

No door-to-door. Avoid going from door-to-door looking for strangers to purchase items from a catalog. This is not a safe situation for kids to be put in. Instead, make a list of all the people you know including; family, friends, relatives, neighbors, co-workers or parents co-workers, people you know from church or other groups.

Parents, get involved. Help your kids out with their fundraiser so that they can sell more items you’re your help. Your kids will also be happy to know that you are supporting their fundraising efforts.

Follow all provided instructions: Most fundraising companies provide a list of instructions and recommendations with the catalogs they send. Fundraising companies have been doing fundraisers for many years and have found methods that are successful and one’s that are not. So follow their advice and you will have a more successful fundraiser.

Ask mom and dad: Before you start asking people to buy from you, make sure that your list of potential buyers is OK’d by your folks. They will have a better idea of who you should and should not ask. Also, ask them to take your fundraising catalog to work with them and ask their co-workers if they are interested in buying something.

Use the phone: If you have relatives who live far away, don’t avoid asking them to buy something. Call them up and tell them what is in the catalog. You can also mail them a copy of the catalog and give them a follow-up call to see if they received it and if they are interested in purchasing anything. Family is always willing to help out other family members, so give them a call and tell them why you are raising money and that their purchases would help your group out a lot.

Don’t carry money around: Always have a secure place for the money you collect for your fundraiser. The best thing to do is to bring the money to your group leader right when you get it, but if you can’t do that, then put the money into a bank account or in a secure location in your home. Parents, you should never let your child carry around money unless you are with them. Also, don’t carry around large amounts of cash. If you have a choice, ask for the person making a purchase to write a check instead.

Use the buddy system: If you are going to an event or a group to sell, never go alone. Always bring a friend or parent with you. Two are better than one and it is much safer to sell with someone you know.

Don’t talk to strangers: Your parents have probably told you not to talk to strangers, but when you’re selling for your fundraiser the rule still applies. Always sell to people that you know.

Sell when the sun is up: This may seem like a no-brainer, but don’t sell after dark. It just is not safe for kids or parents to be out selling after the sun has gone down.

So, follow these safety steps and you will not only have a successful fundraiser, you will have a safe fundraiser.