Safety Tips for Children and Parents to Prevent Abductions

In this day and age, the stories of abductions are becoming all too familiar. From newborn babies to adults, you can't turn on the television or radio without hearing about a new story. Usually, these stories end in tragedy, and in some instances, there are miracles.

The following are suggestions for young children to follow to help prevent an abduction:

• If your child happens to be home alone and the phone rings, tell them to never let the caller know they are home alone. They can tell the caller that their parents are busy and take a message.
• Never answer the door if they are alone, even if they think they know who is at the door.
• Not go into people's houses without letting anyone know where they are.
• Never get into anyone's car without permission.
• Not take candy or other gifts from strangers or anyone else without asking a parent first. Even though someone "seems" nice, they may not be!
• Never play in deserted buildings or isolated areas.
• Scream and scatter books and belongings if they are forced towards a building or car.
• Move away from a car that pulls up beside them if they do not know the driver. It is always good to have your child walk in pairs or groups.
• Be taught that it's all right to say 'no' to an adult if the person wants them to do something you've taught them is wrong.
• Know that no one has the right to touch any part of their bodies that a bathing suit would cover.
• Tell you, school authorities or a police officer about anyone who exposes private parts.
• Tell you if someone has asked them to keep a secret from you.
• Go to the nearest cashier if lost or separated from you in a store or mall.

If you have an older child or a teen, here are some additional safety tips:

• Let you where they are at all times. If this can not be done in person, have them leave a written or recorded message at home.
• Avoid shortcuts through empty parks, fields, laneways or alleys. You never know who could be lurking there.
• If your child is being followed, or feel uncomfortable about something, have them run home or go to the nearest public place and ask for help if they are being followed.
• Learn to recognize suspicious behavior and remember a description of the person or vehicle to give you or the police. Write the plate number in the dirt or snow if nothing else is available.
• If attacked for money, jewelry or clothing give it up rather than risking injury.
• Feel that they can talk to you and call you to pick them up at any time, any place.

By following these tips, you could prevent something terrible happening to someone in your family. It's a scarey world out there, and it's always better to be safe than sorry.