Child Safety

Every day you turn the news on and you hear of another child or adult abduction. Child abduction is becoming a serious problem in our world. Here are a few things to help you teach your children to be safer and what to do if your child is abducted and other quick safety tips.

1)What is a Stranger.
Teach your children that there are people in the world who like to “steal children” Teach them not to help a stranger find his lost pet. Do not accept candy from a stranger. Do not go anywhere with anyone that they do not have permission to go with. Let them know the definition of a Stranger.

2) Use a Password.
When my daughter started a school program, I taught her a password. If they are at a place and I can’t pick them up that person has to have a password to get them. If they are to young to understand, give a password to the babysitter.

3) Recent Photos
Carry a recent photo of your child in your car or wallet. Always be prepared for emergencies.

4) Public Busy Places.
If you are at an amusement park or a busy public place, have your children wear bright colored shirts so that you can spot them easier.

5) If your children are older and like a little independence when riding their bike. Make sure they wear a helmet and buy them a seat pack. Place an information card in there with name, address, parents name and phone number just in case they are in an accident. Teach them what to do if someone comes up to them asking for directions or if they have a flat on the bike.

6) Teach your Children boundaries in the yard. If you have them play in the back yard, put locks on the gates. If you only have a front yard, Place trash cans to block the driveway from people pulling up and make sure you can see your kids at all times.

7) Pay attention
Pay attention to what your child is wearing every day. Make mental notes of scars, clothing, height, weight. Things that would help people help you find your child easier.

8) If your child comes missing:
Report your child as missing to your local law enforcement agency.
Also ask them to enter your child into the National Crime Information Center Missing Persons File. There is no waiting period for entry into NCIC for children under age 18.
Contact friends and family that may know the child whereabouts.
Give out fliers to people with their picture, last wearing, area last seen and contact information.

9) Importance of Phone number and address
Teach young children their address, name of parents instead of mom and dad. Teach them the complete phone number. Example: 1-870-555-5555 and 911.

10) What to do if unsure.
If they think they are being followed or you feel like someone is following you during the entire shopping trip in the mall, Visit a Customer Service Desk and ask to be escorted out to your vehicle or call police. If you leave, make sure the person is not following you home.

Article by:

Chaele McMillan is a mother of three and owns Mom State University and is the Outreach Manager for Sunrise Retreats. Sign up for a Free Inspirational Healing Newsletter at www.sunriseretreats.com

This article is available for reprint with author's resource box intact and all links live and clickable. Copyright is reserved by author.

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