(HURON COUNTY, ON) – Would your child know what to do if confronted by a stranger? Educating children about strangers and what to do if confronted by a stranger is essential. Huron County is a very safe and great place to raise children however children can be vulnerable at times and may fall victim to a stranger attack if they are unaware of potential dangers.
A discussion with your child about stranger safety tips will instill confidence in your child and will guide them in making sound decisions. An important thing to remember when talking to your child is you don’t want to increase fear and anxiety. Avoid those scary stories and focus the conversation on how to be safe. Be matter of fact with your children and tell them strangers for the vast majority are good people and are not looking to cause them harm.
What do children need to know?
A stranger can look like anyone; it is just someone your child doesn’t know.
Teach your child to keep a safe distance from someone approaching them.
Children should know their name, age, telephone number, and home address.
Children should know when and how to contact police in case of an emergency.
Discuss with your child what happens when you dial 9-1-1.
Children should keep their parents informed of their whereabouts at all times.
Children should make noise, run and get to safety in case of an emergency.
If a child is grabbed by a stranger they should yell and fight back.
If your child is touched in an inappropriate way teach your child to say, “NO†and tell your child to get away and tell an adult they trust.
Children should be told to run away from a stranger if that stranger bothers them or makes them feel uncomfortable.
Children should never give out personal information to strangers.
Children should be taught to never accept rides from strangers.
Wherever possible young children should walk in groups; safety in numbers.
Children should know their families safety rules when home alone. Children shouldn’t be allowing strangers into the home when alone.
Communication between a parent and a child is vitally important. Children should be instructed to report as soon as possible any suspicious activity and all interactions with strangers that make your child feel uncomfortable. Having a safety plan in place and teaching your child what to do when confronted by a stranger can be a lifesaver.