7 Precautions to Take against Kidnapping

Abduction is most parents' worst nightmare, but tragically it happens to thousands of kids every year. While crimes can happen despite our vigilance, preparation does make a difference. Here just a few things that we can do as parents or caregivers to protect children from kidnapping:

Tell children:

1. At a very young age to memorize their full name, address, and phone number so they can tell an authority figure if they are separated from a safe adult.
2. How to make local and long distance phone calls, including 9-1-1, and to use these numbers if they are in an uncomfortable or unsafe situation.
3. About abduction in an age-appropriate way, so they are aware of the dangers and importance of safety protocols you establish.
4. Never to cooperate with adults (strangers or otherwise) who try to get them to get in their car or enter a strange place, or attempt to grab them or force them to do anything.
5. A code word that only the family and other trusted adults know. That way, if someone tells them they are authorized to give them a ride, children can ask first if they know the code word before accepting. 
6. Only to leave somewhere (home, school, etc.) if they have parental permission and are headed straight to their approved destination.
7. When at home alone to keep the doors locked, only admit pre-approved people into the house, and refuse to give out personal information like the fact that they're alone or their address over the phone/Internet.

In addition, it is a wise precaution to have both fingerprints and current photos of your children at all times. These, along with distinguishing physical features (such as birthmarks, etc.), can make a tremendous difference in recovering a child.

Have any other precaution tips to share? Let us know!

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