It’s September and Back to School time again (already?). Please take a minute to re-set and check some boxes on your list of things to insure your kids (and you) are prepared for the new school year.
Your children should know your name(s), address, con- tact number, and where home is, in case of emergency. Also, a backup number of a relative or trusted neighbor. Sound simple? Ask them if they know and practice at home.
Emphasize NEVER to talk to strangers, accept food or candy, or accept offers of rides to or from school or other places. PERIOD.
If children should get lost (in a neighborhood, super- market, mall, etc,) tell them it’s important to stay right where they are. They can speak to a store clerk and ask for help, or if they see a mother with kids, ask her for help.
NO ONE should EVER be allowed to touch your child. If this happens, they should immediately shout for help and alert people around them.
NEVER share addresses, phone details, photos from cell phones, email ID’s, or other personal information.
Let children know if they are uncomfortable with some- thing they are asked to do that feels wrong, they should NOT do it.
Parents should be aware and informed of a child’s school’s Emergency Preparedness Procedures. What is the plan for natural disasters or a breech of the school by unauthorized individuals? Is there a protocol for someone claiming to be a relative or neighbor picking up your child?
September is a time to think about these things as the kids go back to school. Have a reasonable conversation with your children to insure they understand these issues without aring them, but making sure of their level of awareness.
—Kent Wellbrock
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