Child Safety Tips

  • Approach the subject of safety in a non-threatening way so that your child is not fearful of dangerous people or situations, but cautious and aware.
  • Open communication is the key. Encourage your child to trust their intuition and to be able to tell you when something is wrong.
  • Make sure your child knows his or her full name, address, phone number and where you work or can be contacted. Teach them how to dial 911, make collect calls and how to use a pay phone operator.
  • Inform your child of the rules pertaining to strangers. Let your child know that adults do not ask children for help nor can they threaten them. They should never approach an unknown car or go anywhere with an adult they do not know.
  • Never label clothing, backpacks or personal items with your child’s name. A stranger can use this information.
  • Put a system in place on what to do if you and your child are separated in a public place.
  • Know where your child is at all times and remember to update your child’s records every 6-12 months.
  • Keep close track of who your children communicate with online and what sites they are visiting while surfing the web. Make sure to teach your kids how to identify and report inappropriate behaviour from others while using the internet.
  • Teach your children that safety is always more important than manners and not to make any exceptions.
  • Make sure your children do not go outside alone. Always take a friend when going places or playing outside.
  • Teach your children to always check first with a parent, guardian or trusted adult before going anywhere, accpeting anything or getting into a car with anyone.
  • Keep in mind that large perecentage of child abductions are committed by someone who is known to the child. The key to preventing your child from becoming victimized is open communication and trust.

For more information on Child Safety Tips visit: www.MissingKids.org