Sensitise your child to ‘stranger danger’
"Prevention is better than cure". We are living in turbulent times
Submitted by the Forderville Community Police Forum
Child abductions have become a sad reality in our country and communities. It is strongly advised that parents/caregivers be more vigilant and on high alert following a spike in abductions, specifically targeting children. “Prevention is better than cure”. We are living in turbulent times.
You can keep your little loved ones safe with these tips:
1. Throw out your child’s personalised backpacks and lunch boxes
Preferably, do not put your child’s name on their clothing or a backpack. If you have to mark their clothes for school, rather label it on the inside where it is not easily visible to strangers. When strangers know your child’s name – your child is much more likely to trust them.
2. Stay away from strangers
Explain to your children, what makes a person a stranger. Note that even someone with a familiar face is a stranger if you do not know him or her well. Stay away from anyone who is following you on foot or in a car. Remember, adults generally do not ask children for help. For example, a child shouldn’t trust grown-ups who ask them for directions or for help to look for lost puppy or kitten.
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3. Teach your children to scream out things that would alarm others
Teach your children not to just scream when a stranger takes him/her, but to scream help or something like: Who are you? Leave me alone! I don’t know you! Where’s my mom and dad? Their safety is more important than being polite. If someone grabs them, they should try to throw themselves on the floor, kicking, screaming, moving around and fighting because it is difficult to be picked up when your full weight is on the ground.
4. Make up and memorise a secret family code word
You can use the code word in the following ways:
• If you send someone to pick up your child – they should know the code word. If the person doesn’t know the code word – your children shouldn’t go with them under any circumstances.
• If your children are at a friend’s house and something is making them feel unsafe, they can call you and use the code word.
• If you are in public and there is a safety threat – you can use the word to warn your children to exit quickly.
5. Full names, telephone number and address
If your child is old enough, teach them your name, surname, telephone number and address. Even your name and surname will help if they get lost in a shopping centre. In this way, they will be able to tell security personnel who their parents are.
NOW READ: Tips from the Forderville Community Police Forum: Be vigilant, stay safe
6. Communication
If you’ve arranged for someone else to pick your child up from school or preschool, discuss this arrangement with your child and the teacher.
7. If followed, run in the opposite direction of the car
Teach your children that if they are being followed or chased, start running in the opposite direction of the car. This can buy them some time as the car turns around.
8. When in trouble : look for a mother with children
Desperate times call for desperate measures. Tell your children that if they are lost or are feeling unsafe – find a mum with kids. Often a police officer or a shop assistant is not at your children’s disposal.
9. Not to accept gifts or sweets from strangers
Teach your child not to accept gifts or sweets from strangers. They should always check with you first. Sometimes school going children are soft targets for drug pedlars.
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