Safe Kids

 

How Children Can Protect Themselves

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.

 

 

horizontal rule

The Peaceful Warrior

by Email Frank Zinck

Dartmouth, Nova Scotia

Copyright © 1999 Frank Zinck. All rights reserved.
Revised: September 04, 2004