THE Terrace RCMP detachment is telling parents and caregivers to talk to children about personal safety following a report received of an April 13 incident.
Details of the incident are vague but the five-year-old child was offered money by a stranger, says Terrace RCMP Constable Angela Rabut.
A description of the person who offered the money was also vague, she added.
“It is important to reinforce basic safety principles to your children in order to educate and prepare them should they be approached,” she said.
Some tips provided to plan for, keep in mind, and discuss with your children are to never talk, take anything, or go anywhere with a stranger.
“A stranger is someone you don’t know; know only a little bit or have seen around; someone your parents have told you to stay away from,” the tips list continued.
“If a stranger attempts to engage you, leave the stranger right away and go to the closest safe place i.e. home, the home of someone you know, or into an open business.”
“Tell an adult that a stranger is making you feel uncomfortable or tried to get you to go with them or give you something.”
The tips list adds that there is safety in numbers and that whenever possible, children should walk with a friend of relative.
“It is okay to say no. Should someone try to grab or restrain them, teach them to scream loudly, make a loud noise, and shout, “This person is not my parent”,” the tips list continues.
RCMP also say that whenever possible, take down a vehicle's licence plate and description of the vehicle and to call 911.
“Establish a secret word or phrase for your family. This should be used in emergencies to identify a safe person other than their parent or care giver,” the tips list concludes.
Incidents of child abduction are rare but it is important to educate children, says the RCMP.
If you have information about crime contact the Terrace RCMP at (250)638-7400 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers by telephone at 1-800-222-TIPS, online at www.terracecrimestoppers.ca or by texting TERRACE plus your message to 274637 (CRIMES). If your information leads to an arrest you may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $2000.