POLICE in Lancashire are offering tips to help keep children safe online this summer.

Officers are reminding young people to put their personal safety first when using the internet, and encouraging parents to make sure their children and teenagers are protected online.

Lynne Asbridge from Lancashire Constabulary’s Public Protection Unit said: “The internet is now a major part of most people’s lives so it is important that we all know how to use it safely.

“Unfortunately, over recent years we have seen that the internet has become an ever increasing method by which offenders seek to meet, groom and then sexually exploit young people.

“Whilst young people are more computer literate and confident in using the internet, they may not understand or acknowledge the necessity to protect themselves online.

“Therefore, we’re asking parents, carers and teachers to work with young people to advise them about how to protect themselves while on the internet.”