As part of its Get Game Smart public service campaign, Microsoft today announced the formation of a new consumer panel made up of 10 teens and their parents. They’ll help educate other families on ways to enjoy safer interactive entertainment at home.

The Get Game Smart Ambassadors represent families from eight U.S. cities. Through the use of an interactive Web site, blog, and online social community, they’re demonstrating their commitment to safer video gaming and inspiring their peers to tackle this issue.

The 10 Ambassador teams were chosen by popular vote on http://www.getgamesmart.com/ based on a short video they submitted, highlighting their families’ approach to balanced video gaming and media use.

The Ambassadors will contribute tips and information to the campaign’s Web site and blog, provide insight on their challenges and solutions related to balanced media use, and help educate families within their communities on these issues.

Recently, cable, TV company Comcast also suggested tips to maintain privacy while using online networks. It says parents should become familiar with networks like Facebook, Twitter, and MySpace to advise their children about the importance of being safe and smart while communicating online. (Read: 5 Tips to Use Facebooks, Twitters Gracefully)

Also, published in the June issue of Pediatrics, a study reveals that 40% of all 173 teen girls in the study reported experiencing online sexual advances, and 26% reported meeting someone in person who they first met online. (Read: Is Internet Bad for Teen Girls?)

The Microsoft campaign also aims to help parents and kids establish healthy habits for playing video games, watching TV, and browsing the Web.