We at the Benton Police Department continue to work diligently in our efforts to provide the best protection possible so that crimes such as child abductions don’t occur.  However diligent our efforts may be, we need everyone’s help in keeping our children safe.  With the summer break here it is a good time to cover some basic safety ideas with your children. 
 

    Stranger danger is something that has been taught for many years to children in school and it’s still just as important as ever.  This goes beyond teaching your children never talk to strangers, but to also never even let a stranger near them.  If they are approached by somebody they don’t know then tell them to run away and scream for help.  Criminals do not like attention drawn to them, because it increases their chance of failure and being arrested. 

    It’s a good idea to go through some mock scenarios with your children about dangerous situations.  These might include stranger danger issues, but also other situations that might make them uneasy with people they may know.   If somebody asks them for help or to keep a secret, regardless if they know them, they should always tell the person they have to ask their parents first before giving an answer.  These should be practiced with a serious tone so they will take it serious should something ever really occur. 

    When you’re outside your home it’s very important to take a few moments to familiarize yourself and your children with the environment around you.  You should talk to your children about people, such as a police officer or fireman, they can go to if they ever feel threatened when they are away from you.  Be sure to show them examples of the people to trust, that way if they need help it won’t seem quite as scary for them. 

    Last fall we partnered with the Wireless Foundation to provide wireless Amber Alerts on missing children to everyone that has a cell phone via text messaging.  If you go to their website at www.wirelessamberalerts.org you can sign up to receive free text messages that are specific to your zip code.  The messages give you information related to the missing child, thus putting extra eyes looking out for them and the suspect. 

    Last month we held an event called Take 25 which is a program that encourages parents and guardians to take 25 minutes to talk with their children about issues they may encounter to help keep them safe.  We still have numerous Take 25 booklets and child ID kits to distribute for free for those that might be interested.  Please feel free to contact the police department at 776-5948 for more information.