Tip of Week – Child Abduction

By Special Agent Bobby Bureau
June 23, 2009

 

Editor’s Note: We are always looking for ways to inform parents of programs that will help them raise their children. Well we found one it is called “Special Agent Bobby Bureau”. We will be joining him to give you tips for kids of all ages. The best way to tell you about this agent is to let him tell you himself.

The Kids’ Page is designed for children and their parents to learn more about the FBI through age-appropriate games, tips, stories and inter actives. We also introduce you to our working dogs and show how FBI special agents and analysts investigate cases. First, can you help Special Agent Bobby Bureau get in disguise for his undercover assignment? He’s depending on you. You have to visit the sight to sign up as a special agent. Today’s Tip: Child Abduction.

Have you ever found yourself separated from your mom or dad? It’s scary, isn’t it? Then you know how your parents feel when they can’t find you! You might not think that it’s a big deal to wander off while you’re in the store with your mom or dad, but think how scared they will be when they can’t find you. Most of the time, you wander back and everything is okay. There are some times when kids are abducted. This means that they are taken against their will. Abduction involves people doing bad things to you or asking you to do things to them that make you feel uncomfortable.

Here’s the hard part: Could you spot an abductor on the street? Could you tell which person in a crowd is a kidnapper? Unfortunately, kidnappers don’t always look or act differently. They may try to give you candy or presents and offer to be your friend. Just remember that they could harm you.

The good news is that most kids or young adults who are abducted are returned home safely. If one of your friends was ever taken, know that they have a team of the toughest, most intelligent and resourceful law enforcement personnel trying to find them: the police. The FBI helps the local and state police investigate the kidnapping.

Remember that child abduction is very rare. However, it is important to use your good sense in all situations.

 

Here are some good rules to follow to protect yourself.

1. Share a secret code word.

You and your parents should agree on a code word that is easy for you to remember. This way, if anyone tells you that you need to come with them because your parents were hurt or are in the hospital, you can ask them for the code word. If they really are a friend, they will know the code word that you and your parents share. If they do not know the code word, you should run away from them as fast as possible.

2. Stay away from strangers.

Who is a stranger? If you’ve seen someone hanging around your playground at school or in your neighborhood, this does not mean that you know him or her. Although he has a familiar face, he is still a stranger to you!

3. Grownups should NOT ask kids to do things that other adults can
do for them.

This means that you should not go, or get in a car, with an adult who, for example, asks you for directions. Grownups should not ask you to help them find a lost puppy or kitten, either. If someone does ask for your help, say, “Wait here and I’ll check with my mom.” Then go get your mom.

4. If you lose your parents in a public place like a store or a park
do not go looking for them.

Immediately ask someone who works there to help you find them. Tell them you have been separated from your parents and you need help finding them.

5. Always ask your parents or a grownup in charge before:

• going anywhere with anybody;
• leaving the yard, play area, or going into someone’s home;
• getting a ride home with someone other than your bus driver or your usual ride; and/or
• getting into a car or going somewhere with somebody even if it’s someone you know!!

6. Once you have permission from your parents:

• Tell them where you are going
• Tell them how you will get there
• Tell them who will be going with you
• Tell them when you will be back
• And get back on time or call to let them know when you will be back!

7. If someone follows you on foot or in a car, STAY AWAY.

You do NOT need to go near the car to talk to the people inside.

Editor’s Note: We would like to know what you think? dan@youngchronicle.com

Source: FBI