Guidelines for Protecting Children

Teach Your Children:

1. Their full names, addresses and telephone numbers.
2. How to make a long distance telephone call (both directly to you by using the area code and by dialing "0" for the operator).
3. Never to go into anyone’s home without your permission. Children should know whose homes they are allowed to enter.
4. No to look for you if they become separated from you while shopping, but go to the nearest checkout counter and ask the clerk for assistance. They should be told never to go into the parking lot.
5. To walk and play with others. A child is most vulnerable when alone. If your child walks to school, have him or her walk with other children.
6. Adults do not usually ask children for directions. If someone should stop a car asking for directions, the child should not go near the car.
7. To go to a place where there are other people if someone is following them, to a neighbor’s home or to a store, they should not try to hide behind bushes.
8. Never go near a car with someone in it. Never get into a car without asking permission. They should know in whose car they are allowed to ride. Warn your children that someone might try to lure them into a car by saying that you said to pick them up. Tell them never to obey such instructions. Have a “secret” word, known only to you and your child.
9. Explain to your child that a stranger is someone they and you do not know very well.
10. Not to tell anyone over the telephone that they are home alone. Not to open the door without a parent’s permission.
11. To tell you if any adults asks them to keep a “secret.”

As Parents You Should:

1. Know who your children’s friends are. Know their parents and talk to them.
2. Never leave children unattended. Never leave children alone in a car.
3. Be involved in your child’s activities.
4. Listen when you child tells you he or she doesn’t want to be with someone, there may be a reason you should know about.
5. Notice when someone shows your child a great deal of attention and find out why.
6. Have your child’s fingerprints taken. Know where to locate dental records.
7. Be sensitive to changes in your child’s behavior and attitudes. Encourage open communication. Never belittle any fear or concerns.
8. Take a photograph of your child each year (four times a year if your child is under two years of age).
9. Have a set plan with your child outlining what he or she should do if you become separated while away from home.
10. Do not buy items that have your child’s name on them such as hats, jackets and tee-shirts. An abductor could start up a friendly conversation with your child after reading and using the child’s name.
11. Be sure your children’s school or day care will not release children to anyone but the children’s parents or person designated by the parents. Instruct the school to contact you if your child is absent.