According to FBI and National Center for Missing and Exploited Children
statistics, more than 750,000 children were reported missing last year —
more than 2,100 each day. In connection with National Missing Children's Day,
here are some suggestions for keeping children safe:
Don't go out alone. Safety in numbers does not just apply to little
kids.
Tell someone where you are going. Having others know your whereabouts
or intended destination is smart, even if you plan to be gone for only a short
time.
Say
no if you feel threatened. If someone makes you feel uncomfortable in any
way, don't be afraid to make your feelings known.
Avoid
risky situations. If you avoid putting yourself in a position that can be
dangerous in the first place, you're already a step ahead.
Never ever go somewhere with someone you don't know. This includes
hitching rides or baby-sitting for someone you don't know.
Pay
attention to behavior that doesn't seem right. Listen to your intuition
and follow your best judgment if someone is staring at you, blocks your way,
or speaks to you in an inappropriate way.
Be
assertive. Stand up for yourself. It's OK to be rude to someone who is
making you feel uncomfortable.