Trafficking

  Human Trafficking Awareness & Child Safety Tips
Human trafficking and child abduction can affect any community. Staying aware, communicating openly, and practicing basic safety habits can help protect children and families.

Safety Tips for Children

1. Be cautious around strangers. Teach children that they should never go anywhere with someone they do not know without a parent or guardian's permission.
2. Trust your instincts. If a person or situation makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, leave immediately and go to a safe place.
3. Run, yell, and get help. If someone tries to force you into a vehicle or take you somewhere against your will, run away, scream loudly, and attract attention.
4. Know important information. Children should memorize their full name, home address, phone number, and a parent's phone number.
5. Create a family code word. Choose a secret word known only to trusted family members. Teach children never to go with anyone who does not know the code word.
6. Check with a trusted adult first. Children should always ask permission before going anywhere with another person or accepting a ride.
7. Share your plans. Always let a parent or guardian know where you are going, who you will be with, how you will get there, and when you will return.
8. Stay in well-traveled areas. Avoid isolated shortcuts and stay where other people are present.

Tips for Parents and Caregivers

1. Maintain open communication. Encourage children to talk openly about their experiences, concerns, and feelings.
2. Know your child's whereabouts. Make sure you can reach your children and know who is supervising them.
3. Stay involved. Take an active interest in your children's activities, friends, and online interactions.
4. Listen carefully. Pay attention when children express fears, concerns, or unusual experiences.
5. Discuss personal safety regularly. Use age-appropriate conversations to teach children how to recognize unsafe situations.
6. Monitor unusual behavior by adults. Be aware of individuals who show inappropriate or excessive interest in children.
7. Teach children to seek help. Let them know it is okay to say "no," leave a situation, or seek help from a trusted adult if they feel unsafe.
8. Talk about secrets. Explain the difference between harmless surprises and secrets that make them feel uncomfortable or afraid. Children should know they can always tell a trusted adult.
9. Practice safety skills. Role-play emergency situations so children know what to do if they ever feel threatened.
10. Monitor online activity. Keep internet-connected devices in common areas when possible and discuss online safety regularly.
11. Review safety plans often. Regularly practice and reinforce family safety rules in a calm, reassuring manner.

Remember

The goal is not to frighten children, but to empower them with knowledge, confidence, and safe habits. Strong communication, awareness, and preparation are some of the best tools for keeping families safe.