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Friday, March 29, 2024

Focus on Safety – Lost child

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No parent imagines it will happen to them, but it only takes a moment to lose sight of your child. Then, the panic sets in. You might be at a pool, summer festival, theme park or even the grocery store. Questions start flooding your mind: How far could he have gotten? Was she taken? Do I look first or call 9-1-1 immediately? What do I do now?

Time is precious in these situations, and as uncomfortable as it might be to think about these things in advance, a little preparation can go a long way in the event you become separated from your little one.

From an early age, we should be teaching our children a parent’s cell phone number. In a stressful situation, however, kids might panic and forget, so put it in writing. If you’re going somewhere crowded, consider writing your cell phone number on your child’s arm or on the tongue of a shoe. There are even waterproof temporary tattoos that you can write your number on.

It is also a good idea to have identification on your child to provide important information to an adult or first responder trying to help your child locate you. Have him/her wear a lanyard (under their shirt) with important information like their name, your name, immediate contact information, local address, home address and any other pertinent information that could be beneficial.

Dress your child in bright colors to stand out in a crowd. Think bright orange, neon green or safety yellow. Add other identifiable accessories (bright hair accessories, a fun watch, reflective stripes, etc.) that will help you or law enforcement quickly scan a crowd for your child.

Take a picture. A current photo of your child with an accurate clothing description is invaluable. In a panic, people can remember incorrectly. Did he wear the blue or green shirt today? Did she have her hair in a ponytail or was it down today? A photo of what your child is wearing and can often be sent to event staff, security and law enforcement to aid in locating your child.

Have a plan and reinforce the plan. Ask your children, “What will you do if you become separated from me?” Teach your kids to stay where they are and not to wander. Ask them, “Who is the safe adult to ask for help?” In the ideal world, this would be a police officer, firefighter, security guard or event employee. In a panic, however, have them look for another mom with children. I have yet to meet another mom who wouldn’t help a child.

If your child does become lost, do a quick sensory search. Call out their name and call attention to the situation. If you don’t find them within a minute or two, notify an employee. If five or ten minutes pass, it is time to notify the police by dialing 9-1-1.

Remember it only takes a moment for a child to become separated from you. So, whether you’re at Ribfest, Centennial Beach or Target, be sure to plan ahead.

Unit next month… Stay Safe and Stay Aware.

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Julie Smith
Julie Smith
Julie Smith is Crime Prevention Specialist at the Naperville Police Department. Contact her at SmithJu@naperville.il.us or (630) 305-5450.

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