A McGruff House is a Temporary haven for our children who find themselves in a frightening or dangerous situation.

It might be a house, an apartment, a townhouse, or a mobile home. Having a McGruff House program in your neighborhood reflects a strong community value of protecting children. A McGruff House sign must be in the window at all times. The McGruff House Program has built-in safeguards to protect children. The local law enforcement agency does a criminal history background check on everyone 18 years of age and older living in the household to help ensure children's safety. Having a McGruff House sign in the neighborhood means someone cares about and watches out for children.

A McGruff House participant agrees, when home, to watch children as they travel to and from school and play in the neighborhood and to help by ;

* telephoning appropriate authorities if a child is lost, hurt, frightened, or has a medical emergency

* reporting crime and suspicious activities

A McGruff House participant does not provide first aid (except in life-threatening situations); administer medication; supervise the neighborhood; enforce laws; provide food, beverages, or toilet facilities; provide transportation; or guarantee safety.

If you are interested in becoming a McGruff House Participant in Yankton, please contac the Yankton Police Department at (605)668-5210.