Unfortunately, that is also available online. In June, Finnish media reports cited that several Internet chat sites used by youth in that country featured information about experiences with dextromethorphan (DXM), a potent and dangerous narcotic, and how to make it. Many of these include the use of Resilar, prescription-free syrup. From it, DXM can be extracted.

Reportedly, between 2001 and 2003, three people in Finland died from using DXM with other narcotics. The report stated no one in the country has died as a result of the drug since 2003. In Denmark, six deaths between 2001 and 2006 have been linked to DXM overdoses. Partly due to that, the cough medicine, Dexofan, which is similar to Resilar, was designated prescription medicine at the end of April.

Access to information online such as how to make drugs or create bombs is of great concern to parents with curious kids. Parents obviously need to keep an open line of communication with their children and to know what they are doing in their lives and online.

In helping parents keep their children safe online, parental controls software can be very useful. Some features to look for in an effective product are:

An ability to customize blocking. In parental software, one size does not fit all. For example, if you have an eight-year-old and a 14-year-old, what they can do online likely varies. Software that lets you establish customizable profiles is very useful.

Blocking of content based on category

Prevention of the use of chat rooms, instant messaging and email (both email and online). These options will allow you to control the communications your children are having.

Restricting computer use. With children of all ages, you might want, at times, to restrict how long they are online. Some programs can monitor and curb the number of hours each week a certain person uses the computer.

Stops the downloading of files. Free music, video and game files can come with viruses, spyware and other malware. If you can ensure only safe files are being downloaded, you can enhance the security of your computer and your family.