- Most children who are abducted are in a situation where there is no parental supervision. There is not always safety in numbers. If you are not in a position to watch your children make them wait until you are.
- Teach your children that they need to always ask for your permission before leaving your home, a friend’s home, accepting gifts or money, rides etc. Even when they are with a friend or relative have them call you and ask for permission to leave or accept food. If they practice good habits in everyday life they are more likely to have good habits that will prevent them from falling for a lure.
- It is amazing how many parents do not have current photographs of their children. If someone takes your child out without you, make sure they also have a photograph with them. Also keep an accurate description and photograph in a safe, accessible place. Update at least every six months (or more often if necessary).
- Know your child’s friends. Who are their parents? Where do they live? Know names, phone numbers and addresses.
- Make it clear to your child whose homes they are allowed to go into and play.
- Teach your child their phone number and area code. Teach them their address, including street, town, state/county and country.
- Show your child how to the number for the police and the operator. Practice if possible.
- Know where your child is at all times.
- Don`t let your child go into a public restroom alone. Go into the restroom with them.
- Stores will gladly make sure a restroom of the opposite sex is clear so you can take your child inside.
- Do not leave your child alone in the car, not even for one minute. Not only is this a health hazard, but it is an open invitation for someone to take your child.
- Do not put your child’s name (first or last) on clothing, hats, backpacks, toys etc. A child responds to their name and a person using that name will automatically not be thought of as a stranger. Some schools insist on this, see if if there is a way round this.
- Do not leave your child wondering in the toy section of a store or alone in a mall/shopping centre. If they do get lost or bothered have them go to a cashier for help.
- Teach your child not to take anything (money, toys, etc.)from anyone without asking your permission first. Remember, predators are not always strangers, so they need to always get your permission. Someone with good intentions will not mind you knowing about their gift.
- If your child has to walk to and from school practice with them. Show them the route they should take and how to walk safely.
- Listen when your child tells you that they don’t want to be with someone. Find out why.
- Notice if someone is paying undue attention to your child.
- Encourage parent-child communication without being judgmental or critical. Make yourself available to your child. If you don’t, they may not come to you when they need help.
- Never belittle any fear your child has, real or imaginary.
- Never force your child to hug or kiss a relative or friend if they don’t want to.
- Practice good habits. Call when you will be late; let your kids know where you are.
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