As a new school year begins, parents should remember new backpacks and sneakers are not the only things that should be on their to do list. Safety should always remain at the top of their list.
An analysis by the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children found attempted abductions of children are at the highest risk when going to and from school or school related activities.
This can be a scary subject but it is necessary that children have a plan if a situation arises. Parents and other adults can help keep children safe by following these ten tips.
1. Teach children to always TAKE A FRIEND with them when walking or biking. Tell them to STAY WITH A GROUP while standing at the bus stop.
2. Walk the route to and from school with your children pointing out landmarks and safe places to go if they're being followed or need help. Teach your children they should NEVER TAKE SHORTCUTS and always stay in well-lit areas.
3. It is not safe for younger children to walk to and from school, even in a group. Parents should always provide supervision. Parents should wait for a bus with children or make arrangements for adult supervision at the bus stop.
4. Teach your children if anyone bothers them and makes them feel afraid or uncomfortable they should trust their feelings and immediately get away from that person. Teach them it is perfectly fine not to be polite and tell someone "NO".
5. Teach your children if anyone tries to take them somewhere they should RESIST by kicking and screaming out "I don't know you" or "This is not my parent." Tell them they need to draw as much ATTENTION as possible.
6. Teach your children NOT TO ACCEPT A RIDE from anyone. Let your child know who is authorized to give them rides if you are not available. Stress to them to only accept rides from your emergency back up trusted adult. If anyone follows them in a vehicle they should run in the opposite direction and shout for help.
7. Teach your children to run away from an adult who ASKS FOR DIRECTIONS or asks for help looking for a lost pet.
8. Teach your children to NEVER ACCEPT MONEY OR GIFTS from anyone unless you have told them it is alright to accept in each instance.
9. Make sure the school has current and accurate emergency contact information on file for your children and confirm names of those authorized.
10. Teach your children to always CHECK FIRST before changing their plans before or after school. Teach them to never leave school, with anyone unless they CHECK FIRST with you or another trusted adult, even if someone tells them it is an emergency.
In conclusion, it's important to empower your children. Give them the confidence and tools to stay safe. Teach them to trust their feelings and instincts and always tell you or a trusted adult if anyone makes them feel afraid, uncomfortable or confused.
