Q: How can parents prepare younger children in case they get lost?
A: Teach your children the following:
• Never assist an adult. An adult never needs the help of a child.
• Do not accept gifts or money from a stranger.
• If the child is lost, she should stop moving and stay in one place. If someone offers to help, ask him to get a police officer or security.
• Children should know their own full names, parents' first names, and home and cell phone numbers.
• Run in the opposite direction of danger.
• Scream or put up a fight if someone tries to take you.
Q: What can parents do to give adolescent children greater independence in a safe way?
A: Have clear rules regarding curfews and telephone check-ins. Remind your teens about safety:
• Use the buddy system.
• Never take short cuts through remote areas—even with friends.
• Carry a cell phone.
• Have “emergency” cash available at all times.
Q: What advice would you give to parents about abduction?
A: While the statistics show that stranger abductions are rare, you don’t want to be one of the statistics. Most stranger- abductions are perpetrated by slight acquaintances who can actually be defined as strangers. Be vigilant in the safety of your child.
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----------------Ronni Rowland is a mother of two and freelance writer.
