Greetings parents and kids! Officer Friendly here with some helpful tips on keeping kids safe in crowded places. Here are a few tips that will help you and your family stay together, and if separated, safely reunite.
Whether you are at an amusement park or a large outdoor or indoor event, keep in mind the following:
- Small children may run off or leave your side in a split second, so hold their hand when moving through a crowd or use another means of connection.
- Consider having an I.D. tag on a necklace or bracelet for your child that has your cell phone number on it in case your child gets lost.
- In case of separation, or an emergency, pick an area to meet. Indoor exit signs are high enough to see and well lit. Having kids go to their nearest Exit location and wait can minimize and quicken the search. Or choose another marker they can easily locate.
- If the kids have cell phones, consider enabling a tracker that will allow you to locate them easily.
- Have clear and current pictures of your child to show police in case they get lost.
- If indoors, note all exits and talk to your kids about being aware of exit points while indoors in case of evacuation.
- Be aware of your surroundings. If someone appears to be paying particular attention to your children, notify location security or police.
- Don’t let your children go into restrooms unattended.
- Always have a plan in case of an emergency or separation. Don’t be hesitant to notify security or police if you see or hear something suspicious.
Have a safe and happy New Year – Officer Friendly!
