Back-to-School Safety Tips

No one likes to think about it, but the possibility is always there that something could happen to your child when they are away from you. There could be an accident, or even worse, your child could be abducted. This happens every day, far too often, and many people are completely unprepared. There are steps you can take to help keep your child safe, as well as things you can do to help recovery, or identification of your child in case of an emergency.

Do you have a recent picture of your child? Keep it in a place where you can access it easily. Children change so often, it is important to have a picture of them taken at least twice a year. It doesn't have to be a fancy picture, just one that is clear and can give authorities a good description of your child. A picture in which your child is standing next to a door is probably a good one because it can show authorities your child's approximate height and build, along with his or her features. If you do not have a picture like this, have your child's height and weight information written down and keep it with the recent picture you do have.

Do you know what your child is wearing? Before your child goes to school, take a mental note about what he or she is wearing. Include the type of shoes, color of clothing, description of their backpack, jacket, whatever they are wearing when they leave. Make sure your child knows the importance of wearing what they have on. Often, our kids will leave for school in one outfit, and change into something different once they are out of sight or at school. If you are among the many parents that cannot be home when your child leaves for school, ask them the night before what they are wearing and make them stick to it. Ask your babysitter to also make a mental note of what your child is wearing, just in case they didn't listen, and changed anyway.

Does your child walk to school or the bus stop? Try to make sure your child has a buddy to walk with. There is safety in numbers. It is also important to know the route your child takes every day. Decide upon a set route for your child and be sure they know to stick with it. This way, you can find your child easily, and you do not have to guess which route was taken. Make sure you know who your child is walking with, and that they both know the route.

It is also a good idea to have a couple of spots where your child can go to in case of an emergency. This should either be a public place, or the home of a well-trusted adult. If something were to happen, and your child cannot reach the safe spot, tell them to run and yell "FIRE". Yelling this will attract someone's attention. If your child has to approach a stranger, teach them to approach a woman. Women are more responsive and helpful towards children than men, in general. Teach your child to trust his or her instincts. If they feel like they are in danger, get away.Even if the situation turns out to be completely harmless, it is always better to be safe than to be sorry.

Teach your children about stranger danger, and be sure they understand that they should never ever approach a vehicle, no matter what the person says. You should have at least one other trusted adult able to either pick your child up from school, or meet them at home in case you are unable to be there. Be sure your child knows who these people are. Emphasize to your child that these are the ONLY other people who will take care of them in the event you cannot be there.
In addition, you should also have one or two trusted neighbors, whose house your child can go to if needed.

So, in conclusion, take these steps to help keep your child safe. Have a recent picture, know what your child is wearing, who your child is with, the route your child will take to and from school. Set up at least one safe spot on your child's route. Have one or two other trusted adults that are able to pick up or meet your child in the event you cannot. Teach your child the danger of strangers. Be sure to have a trusted neighbor for your child to go to in case of emergency. Using these tips will help you and your child feel safer this school year.