Incidents of child abduction are rare; however it is important to reinforce basic safety principles to your children in order to educate and prepare them should they be approached. Some tips to plan for, keep in mind and discuss with your children are: 
 

  • An adult and a child hold handsThere is safety in numbers, whenever possible walk with a friend or relative.
     
  • Explain that rides should never be accepted without consultation with the parent, even if the child knows the individual.
     
  • Teach children it's OK to say "NO" . Should someone try to grab or restrain them, teach them to scream loudly , make a loud noise and shout, "THIS PERSON IS NOT MY PARENT."
  • Whenever possible take note of any physical vehicle descriptors or license plates.
     
  • If you have a cell phone, call 911.
     
  • If you are familiar with the area, go to the home of someone you know or go into an open business.
     
  • Establish a secret word or phrase for your family. This should be used in emergencies to identify a safe person other then their parent or child giver.

Basic road safety tips should always be reinforced at all times of the year.

For more tips for both parents and children visit the RCMP National Missing Children Services.