Kidnappings: protecting your children, whatever their age

Kidnappings remain a reality across South Africa.

According to third-quarter crime statistics, 3 975 people were kidnapped between October 1 and December 31 last year.

“As parents and caregivers, we must empower our children. We need to equip them with the knowledge and the skills to deal with any crisis and this includes being kidnapped.

“While we certainly do not want to live in fear, we need to have frank conversations about what to do when things go wrong,” said Charnel Hattingh, group head of communications and marketing for the Fidelity Services Group.

Simple actions could often keep a child or young adult safe, she said.

Also read: Fake kidnapping reports and misinformation waste resources and cause concern

Hattingh encouraged parents to teach their children to always walk to or from school with a friend or in a group of friends.

“Children should stick to streets they know and never take shortcuts through quiet areas or empty parking areas and never walk with cellphones and iPads in full view.”

She added that if children get picked up at school, they should never leave the premises but always wait inside the school grounds for their lift to arrive.

“Younger children particularly 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 children that you would never send someone they don’t know to fetch them,” Hattingh said.

She advised that parents should opt for using a password system.

“If the person coming to collect your child from school cannot repeat the password they should not get into the car but immediately ask for help.”

Hattingh said if a stranger approaches your child, they should not talk to them no matter how friendly they may seem.

Also read: WARNING: Ransom kidnappings not limited to the wealthy

“If someone tries to grab your child, they need to fight, kick and shout.

“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.”

She encouraged parents to make sure children memorise the full names, addresses and phone numbers of a parent or guardian.

“Using a play phone, teach children when and how to dial 10111. If they are older they should have some emergency numbers programmed into their phone or consider having a safety app on their phone,” said Hattingh.

For older children and students, Hattingh advises the following:

• Older children should be reminded to keep their valuables out of sight at all times and not to use headphones because this will dampen their ability to sense their surroundings.

• If they are walking home or to public transport they need to alter their route. Even if it takes longer, always use a route that is well-lit and populated with houses and other walkers instead of taking shortcuts through less friendly areas. If you feel threatened, you can at least knock on someone’s door for help if you’re walking through a familiar neighbourhood.

• If you are using a taxi service, ensure it is a bona fide service provider.

Also read: Kempton police arrest suspect arrested for murder and kidnapping

• Be extra cautious to go and meet anyone who befriends you on social media. Always meet in a public space with two or three friends as backup.

• Be cautious about being lured by people offering you a job or modelling contract. Remember safety in numbers.

“We cannot be with our children at all times. Please use these tips to give them the know-how to avoid dangerous situations while also knowing what to do if things go wrong,” said Hattingh.
She also urges parents and caregivers to report any missing children to police immediately and not to waste time.