Stranger Danger
Tips for Protecting Your Child
By: Child Find

Child abduction is a growing concern. So its good to know there are simple precautions you can take to help safeguard your children

The help you can offer a young child is somewhat different from what is useful for an older child. Here are some suggestions:

Young Children Should:

Never say they are alone if they answer the phone: they can offer to take a message or say their parents will phone back.

Never answer the door if they are alone.

Not invite anyone in the house without the permission of a parent or babysitter.

Not go into people's houses without letting anyone know where they are.

NEVER get into anyone's car without permission.

Do not take candy or other gifts from strangers or anyone else without asking a parent first.

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.

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.

Older Children/Teens Should:

Tell you where they are at all times or leave a written or recorded message at home.

Never hitchhike.

Avoid shortcuts through empty parks, fields, laneways or alleys.

Run home or go to the nearest public place and yell for help if they are being followed.

Learn to recognize suspicious behaviour 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, jewellry or clothing give it up rather than risk injury.

Feel that they can talk to you and call you to pick them up at any time, any place.

Parents Should:

Avoid clothing and toys with your child's name on it. A child is less likely to fear someone who knows his/her name.

Check all potential babysitters and older friends of your child. NEVER leave your child alone in a public place, stroller or car. Not even for a minute.

Always accompany young children to the bathroom in a public place and advise them never to play in or around the area.

Always accompany your child on door-to-door activities, i.e. Hallowe'en, school fundraising campaigns, etc.

Point out safe houses or homes with the Block Parent sign where children can go if they are in trouble.

Create an environment in which the child feels free to talk to you. Let him/her know that you are interested and sensitive to their fears.

Teach them that the police are their friends and that they can rely on them if they are in trouble.

Keep an up-to-date colour photograph of your child, a medical and dental history, and have your child fingerprinted.