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    Washington Communities Against Predators

 

Be Prepared

Out and about with your kids: a few things to make it a more secure experience.

Before you leave: Like having enough fuel in your car, or a raincoat in Seattle: Be Prepared
  1. Wear sensible shoes, make sure your cell phone is fully charged, and let someone know where you're going. Surprising fact: often when the child is victimized, the mother is the primary target.
  2. Run through safety rules with your kid. At this point, you've already covered The Essentials, now you need to focus on what to do if they're separated from you [find a mom], and remind them of your family's security rules. Role playing is always good.
During: Another word for parent is bodyguard.
  1. Predators don't care about rules and law. Law is not a barrier, it's an enforceable standard. You are the barrier.
  2. Be aware of your surroundings, trust your instincts, and don't apologize for acting on your instincts.
  3. Event staff will let you know who they are before they approach your kids. Everyone should have to go through you; if they're credible, they'll applaud your defensive stance.
  4. It's legal for strangers to take a picture of your kid in public. Once they get that picture, they own an image of your child and can do whatever they want with it. Pay attention to who is taking pictures of whom. Take a picture of them, and let them know you do not want them to take pictures of your kid.
  5. If you feel threatened at any time, call 911. (Two very good reasons to carry a cell phone with a built in camera.)
After: Spread the word.
  1. Talk to your kids about what happened. Reinforce what worked, what they did well, and give them honest insights so they have a clear understanding.
  2. Talk to your friends and community. "Weird guy with dark hair and ugly black hat was taking pictures of my kids at Bell Square Park. I took a picture of him, told him to stay away from my kids, and then he left. Here's the pic of what he looks like."
  3. Talk to the staff or management about whatever safety issues you experienced. If you have concerns, call you local law enforcement's non- emergency number. Clarify what your rights are as a private individual and as a parent.
  4. If you're amazed by something you learn at this stage, contact CAP, contact your legislators, and tell your community. There are definitely gaps in the law, and they won't fix themselves.
  5. Don't let any of this stop you from enjoying your day.