Use Street Smarts

free-candy-vanJimmy is walking along the road to play at the park with friends. A car drives up and a man hangs a photo of an adorable puppy out the window. “Excuse me. Have you seen my little girl’s puppy? She lost him this morning and she won’t stop crying. Can you please help me find him? There is a reward.”

It is a common ploy used by kidnappers to entice children close enough to the car so that they may grab the child; predators will often times play to a child’s good-hearted nature.

“Can you help me find my dog?”

“Can you give me direction to the gas station?”

“Are there any cool game shops nearby?”

Children are naturally inquisitive and helpful and this very innocent view of the world can make them a target. How then can you safeguard your child against this type of ploy? Share these tips with your child:

  1. Don’t take short cuts or “secret ways”. It is too easy for a stranger to approach you in these secluded areas.
  2. Never approach a car that is not driven by a family member or very trusted family friend.
  3. Never take anything from a stranger. Not candy. Not money. Not toys.
  4. Quickly run the opposite direction the car is facing and stay on the busy street. Under no circumstance run for a “short cut”.
  5. Ask for the code word! Maybe the predator says “Mom’s been in an accident. I am supposed to take you to the hospital.”
  6. If you are lost immediately find a police officer, fire fighter, emt, or a person who works at the place you are lost. Find a person of trusted.

About The Author:

Jeff Reese, Gracie Jiu-jitsu black belt, has had the honor of learning from two generations of Gracie family members including Royce, Royler, Rodrigo, Rolker, Ralek, Rener, and Ryron; he teaches at Gracie NEPA in Scranton, PA.

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Posted in Kids Blog!, Stranger Danger

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