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Chief’s Corner
By
Chief Steven J. Wojnar
Dudley Police Department
The recent attempted
child abduction in Charlton resulted in several inquiries regarding
child safety. There is never enough review or practice when it comes to
protecting our children. I was asked to remind everyone of some safety
tips.
Children should remember to stay in close contact with their
parents or guardians. The age of cell phones makes this task easier.
Some types of phones can be programmed to call only certain numbers to
assure they are used only for specific purposes. Children should keep
parents apprised of their location at all times.
If approached by someone in a car, the rides should be
refused. Children should run in the opposite direction or proceed
quickly to their house or that of a trusted friend or neighbor. Child
abductors wish to avoid crowds and being noticed. Yelling or causing a
scene will hopefully draw attention to these people who wish to avoid
this recognition.
One situation rarely thought of is being offered a ride
unexpectedly by someone you may know. People may think this is no great
concern. However; it can be. Children are more likely to be molested
by individuals they know rather than strangers. Children should never
take a ride unless it is prearranged with their parents. Code words can
be discussed to be used in the event of an emergency. If the code is
known, it can be assumed it came from the parents.
Remember, child predators are good at their trade and they
work extremely hard to accomplish their ultimate goal. Discuss safety
rules with your children and practice role playing. As we see these
situations can occur in our own backyard. Be aware of your surroundings
and avoid placing yourself or your children in harms way. More
information can be obtained by calling our office or visiting the
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at 1-800-THE-LOST or
at
www.missingkids.org.
Thanks
again for your questions and comments. Please send them to me at the
Dudley Police Department 71 West Main St., Dudley, Ma. 01571 or email at
swojnar@dudleypolice.com.
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