Rekord’s partner in the #keepPTAkidssafe campaign – Bull Security, has offered some useful tips for parents on how to prepare for the moment their child might be abducted or run away.
• Take a clear, sharp, full-face photo of each child at least once a year. On the back of the photo note the following current information for each child:
• Age
• Height and weight
• Hair and eye colours
• Clothing and shoe sizes
• Any distinguishing body marks
• Date picture was taken
• Know where each child’s medical and dental X-rays and records can be located. Obtain these before they are destroyed or you move to a distant location.
• Keep an up-to-date record of any medicines a child needs and what the effects will be if not taken.
• Take fingerprints of your child for positive identification in case of foul play or hidden identity. Fingerprinting each member of the family at the same time can allay a child’s fear and such identification is useful to have.
• Walk with your children to school or the bus stop. Point out areas that might not be safe. Play a game called “What if” by using pretend situations to help them decide how to react in a real emergency. Show them which houses they should go to if they need help.
• Do not let your children go to a shopping centre by themselves.
• Your children should avoid public restrooms unless they are with a trusted adult.
• If your children should become lost inside a store or shopping centre, tell them to go to a nearby clerk or security guard for help.
• It is best not to let your children wear clothing or carry articles with their names on them. A stranger may pretend to know them by calling their name and acting like a friend.
Also read:
Rekord’s #keepPTAkidssafe kicks off
More attempted child kidnappings
Three-year-old almost snatched from mother’s arms
How to keep your children safe
Eight-week-old baby almost taken from mother
Bull Security advises parents about abduction
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