Abduction Prevention Tips
Child abduction rates have risen 444% since 1982 and are still rising. There are some basic things to teach your children to prevent them from becoming the next victim. No parent wants to believe his or her child could be abducted -- but it might if you are not careful.
Pass these simple safety tips on to your children:

• Teach your children to not answer the door when they are home alone, to not talk to strangers, and to not tell callers when they are home alone. Also teach them not to talk to strangers or offer personal information to anyone they do not know.
• Do not let your children wear clothing with their name on it.
• Teach your children that no one has the right to touch them or ask them personal questions.  Explain what personal questions are, give examples.
• Teach your children to not hitchhike or accept rides from strangers.
• Ask your children to be honest with you about where they have been and who they have seen.
• Tell your children to trust their “gut”!  If something, someone, or somewhere doesn’t feel right, for whatever reason, to share that with you or a trusted adult. 
• Teach internet safety.  Kids are trusting and want to share.  Children are on the internet at young ages some starting at 18 months on up.  Teach them what is appropriate to share and things not to share on the internet (i.e. what school they go to, what their mascot is, or even what little league team they are on).  Keep your computer in a common area of the household. 
• Communication and being close with your kids is one of the best preventative measures for abduction.
• Use the Buddy System.  Children should never go anywhere alone.
• Know your children’s friends.
• Get your kids ID and make sure they have it with them.

As a guardian, the best way to fend off abductors is to keep an eye on your children and make sure they are always in a safe place. Teach your children where to go when they are separated from you and who to call for help. Keep them up to date on the news and aware of their surroundings. Keep photographs of your children on hand and keep their fingerprints and dental history at home in case something does happen.  In the event someone has been abducted, call 9-1-1 immediately!

A smart parent can prevent child abduction. No child should ever have to feel the pain of being alone and scared. Work to protect your children.

For information on International Family Abduction Prevention Tips:
http://www.missingkids.com/missingkids/servlet/PageServlet?LanguageCountry=en_US&PageId=775