Parents have been urged to empower their children to know how to respond to any crisis or act of criminality, in the wake of at least three kidnappings reported in and around Cape Town in recent days.

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Local schools have reportedly also issued related warnings to parents.

Meanwhile in Durban, the public are waiting for news on the disappearance and death of 10-year-old Miguel Louw. A suspect was arrested and made two court appearances in connection with his disappearance in July.

There are simple actions, which can often keep a child safe.

Parents are also reminded to constantly reinforce general safety tips for children:

1. They must always walk to or from school with a friend or friends. Stick to streets they know and never take short cuts through quiet areas or empty parking lots and never walk with cell phones and iPads in full view.
2. If they get picked up at school, they should never leave the premises but always wait inside the school grounds for their lift to arrive.
3. They must never get into a stranger’s car; even if the stranger claims that someone they love is hurt and that they have been sent to pick them up. Remind them that you would never send someone they don’t know to fetch them.
4. Consider using a password system. If the person coming to collect you from school cannot repeat the password you and your child agreed on, they should not get into the car but immediately ask for help.
5. If a stranger approaches them, they should not talk to them no matter how friendly they may seem. If someone tries to grab them, they need to fight, kick and shout out that the person is not their mom or dad.
6. If your child does encounter any suspicious activity, encourage them to get a good look and memorise their physical details and clothing, as well as the vehicle they are in. Listen for any names or other details that might help identify them later.
7. Make sure your children memorise their full names, address and phone number. Using a play phone, teach them when and how to dial 10111.

Parents and caregivers to immediately raise the alarm if their children are missing, so that authorities can be deployed to assist.

Released by Emma Dunk

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