Every 41 seconds a child is reported missing in the United States. A missing child is one of every parent’s worst fears, but there are measures that can be taken to avoid this terrible tragedy. “Communication is the absolute key to keeping your child safe,” says Jeff Griesmer, president of the Child Rescue Network. “If a child has a plan of action and knows how to react in potentially dangerous situations, then they won’t need to be faced with the impossible decision of, ‘Is this a good person who wants to help me or a bad person they may hurt me?’”

One of the most important aspects to keeping your child safe is keeping the lines of communication open. They must feel comfortable coming to you with any problem and openly discussing any situation they encounter.

They should also know your first name as well to help identity you over an intercom system if they are ever separated for whatever reason. “We strive to educate parents that the ‘don’t talk to strangers’ way of thinking is wrong. The ’stranger danger’ may sound catchy but in practice is does not work and may actually cause more harm to the child now and later in life,” he says. Instead, it’s recommended to have an action plan. They should know to stay put wherever they are and not move for anyone unless it is you or a police officer in uniform.

You should also carry a safety identification card for your kids. Typically these cards include the child’s photograph, thumb print and vital information. Many organizations, like Child Rescue Network, offer these cards free of charge to parents at hundreds of community events throughout the year. If you do not have a card, you should at least carry an up-to-date photo of your child, taken within the last year says Griesmer. “The single most important tool a parent can have to be reunited with their child is a current picture on them at all times. Surprisingly however, less than 3 percent of parents have a current photo of their child taken from within the last year.”

If your child is missing – contact the police immediately. “You don’t have to wait 24 hours. You don’t have to even wait 24 seconds if you think your child is missing to get the police to respond,” he says. If possible, try to control your emotions and remain level headed. “A calm attitude may be the difference between a tragedy and a reunion.”

There are dozens more tips and available resources online for parents to take advantage of. If you would like to learn more, please visit www.ChildRescueNetwork.org.

If you would like to report a missing child to Child Rescue Network call 877.209.KIDS (5437).

Article by Corey Gehrold