* Notify police without delay if you suspect that your child is missing.
* Always have a recent photograph of your child – not in school uniform.
* Be certain that your children are aware of the possible dangers of cellphones – for instance the use of chat rooms on Mxit and Facebook
* Have a list of your child’s friends names, addresses and contact details. Please remember that if your child needs to be found, the first 48 hours are crucial and this information will be of extreme importance.
* Talk to your child about the dangers of being alone in places like shopping malls and parks.
* Communicate with your child, develop trust and take note of strange behaviour, depression, new friends, change in hygiene, use of liquor and so on.
* Make a note of the blood group or type of your child.
* Warn your child against great offers of paying jobs and free education.
* Keep a lock of your child’s hair in a safe place.
* Be aware of the fact that culprits are frequently from inside the family and friend circles.
Do you know of a missing child? Tell Midrand Reporter by sending an email to midrandreporter@caxton.co.za
