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The death of Barrie teen Brandon Crisp after running away from home in October may seem like an issue that's far from home.

But it's not. It's as close as it gets for any parent of a modern teen immersed in all manner of electronic gadgetry.

And it hits especially close to home for those of us who cover the news in Etobicoke. Brandon's mother works for the Barrie Advance, a sister newspaper to the Etobicoke Guardian.

Following news over the Thanksgiving weekend of the boy's disappearance and the subsequent searches, many parents right here at home may have pondered similar scenarios in their own homes.

It's not surprising that today's parents have to confront the emerging issue of Internet and gaming addiction. Children and teens today are literally immersed in electronic appliances and diversions. They play their iPods and text one another on their phones. They have the choice between interactive games and consoles that compete for their attention. They can create and live in entire worlds with their computers and game systems.

In that context, Brandon was a typical teenager. He is one of 'our' children.

Families in Etobicoke are encouraged to talk to their sons and daughters about this issue. Monitor their playing and online time. Balance that against their school work and the amount of time they spend with their peers.

It's important for parents to remain involved and engaged in what their kids are doing to make sure they aren't crossing the line from healthy interest to obsession.

If you do, you'll gain insight into these activities that have become such a large part of teenage existence. And some of you may discover that your child has developed something more than a healthy interest in an online world or a console game.

Fortunately, there are local resources available, should you require more information, a second opinion, or even intervention. The George Hull Centre for Children and Families in Etobicoke provides a host of services that can make the difference for a child struggling with these issues and provide them with the tools and knowledge to confront their addiction.

As parents, we must be cognizant of the activities of our children online and measure the amount of time our children spend on game consoles. We must avail ourselves of the resources available and determine how to best address issues for individual families.

Brandon's tragic death can serve as a wake up call to others. If we pledge to inform ourselves, talk to our children, and take necessary steps to help our children when help is required, then Brandon's death will serve an important purpose. We all mourn for Brandon. Let's make sure we do something about it.