On the heels of the terrifying near child abduction last week in west Phoenix, authorities from Scottsdale are currently conducting investigations in two occurrence of attempted abductions involving students who were on their way to school.

A letter was sent to families by Desert Shadows Middle School, which is situated close to 64th Street and Thunderbird Road, to notify them about the reported incidents on Friday, Jan. 26 and Monday, Jan. 29.

According to the school, a student was approached by two men in a white Honda Civic on Friday, who offered them a ride to school.

A group of four men in a white Honda Civic approached a student on Monday and asked them the same question.

The individuals involved in both cases were only identified as Hispanic males.

According to the school, the District School Safety Officer has been notified about the reported incidents. It is expected that the Scottsdale and Phoenix police departments will heighten their presence in the surrounding vicinity.

In a letter, the school stated that they do not have proof of any criminal activities resulting from this interaction, but they do want to share safety-related information with their community.

Individuals who witness questionable actions or have any knowledge about these occurrences are urged to contact Crime Stop at (602-262-6151) or 911.

Last week, authorities in Glendale opened an investigation into a case of a child being targeted for kidnapping while walking to school. The incident, which was captured on surveillance footage, resulted in the arrest of a suspect.

It is not believed these events were connected.

Parents number one priority is the safety of their children. Kidnapping is a real and terrifying threat, but there are steps we can take to minimize the risks and keep our children safe. All About Arizona News has compiled essential tips that every parent should know to safeguard their children from kidnapping while walking to school.

Before we dive into the tips, it is crucial to have an understanding of the risks associated with kidnapping. According to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, approximately 800,000 children are reported missing each year in the United States alone. While not all of these cases involve kidnapping, it highlights the prevalence of the issue. The majority of kidnappings are committed by family members or acquaintances, but stranger abductions do occur. It is important to be aware of this reality and take proactive measures to protect our children.

The importance of educating children about safety

One of the most powerful tools we have in keeping our children safe is education. By teaching our children about potential dangers and how to respond to them, we empower them to make smart decisions and protect themselves. Start by having age-appropriate conversations about stranger danger. Teach your child that it is okay to say “no” to adults they don’t know and to never go anywhere with someone they are unfamiliar with. Role-play different scenarios with your child so they know how to react if approached by a stranger. Reinforce that their safety is more important than being polite.

Teach your child about stranger danger

The first tip in safeguarding your children from kidnapping while walking to school is to teach them about stranger danger. Explain to your child that not all strangers are bad, but it is important to be cautious and aware of their surroundings. Teach them to never accept gifts or rides from strangers and to never go anywhere with someone they don’t know. Role-play different scenarios with your child so they know how to respond if approached by a stranger. Remind them that it is okay to say “no” and to seek help from a trusted adult if they feel uncomfortable or threatened.

Establish a walking buddy system

Another effective way to enhance your child’s safety while walking to school is to establish a walking buddy system. Encourage your child to walk with a friend or a group of friends whenever possible. There is safety in numbers, and a potential kidnapper is less likely to target a group of children. Talk to other parents in your neighborhood and coordinate walking groups. This not only increases your child’s safety but also fosters a sense of community and friendship.

Create a safety plan with your child

Creating a safety plan with your child is an essential step in safeguarding them from kidnapping. Sit down with your child and discuss different scenarios that may arise while walking to school. Teach them what to do if they are approached by a stranger or if they feel unsafe. Establish a safe meeting place where your child can go if they are separated from their walking buddy or in case of an emergency. Practice the safety plan with your child regularly to ensure they remember what to do in different situations.

Talk to your children about in case of an emergency, who exactly would be the one to come pick them up from school, the park or an activity. Talk in great detail explaining that you would never send a stranger to pick them up, ever so they have an understanding that a stranger approaching them, with whatever story, is a red flag to seek help immediately.

Teach your child to be aware of their surroundings

Being aware of one’s surroundings is a crucial skill that can help prevent kidnappings. Teach your child to pay attention to what is happening around them while walking to school. Encourage them to avoid distractions such as using their phone or listening to music. Teach them to walk confidently and with purpose, as this can deter potential kidnappers. Remind them to trust their instincts and to report any suspicious activity to a trusted adult or the school authorities.

Use safe routes to and from school

Choosing safe routes to and from school is an important step in ensuring your child’s safety. Avoid isolated areas or shortcuts that are not well-lit or frequented by others. Opt for routes that have high foot traffic and are close to homes or businesses. Walk the route with your child and point out safe places they can go to if they feel threatened. It is also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the route and any potential danger spots.

Teach your child how to respond in an emergency

Knowing how to respond in an emergency can make all the difference in keeping your child safe. Teach them how to dial emergency services such as 911 and when it is appropriate to do so. Role-play different emergency scenarios with your child so they can practice their response. It is also important to teach them their home address and phone number in case they need to provide that information to authorities. By equipping your child with these skills, you are empowering them to take quick action if they find themselves in a dangerous situation.

Utilize technology to enhance safety

In today’s digital age, there are numerous technological tools that can enhance the safety of your child while walking to school. Consider investing in a GPS tracking device that your child can carry or wear discreetly. This way, you can monitor their location in real-time and ensure they are safe. Teach your child how to use their smartphone to call for help or to share their location with you or a trusted adult. However, it is important to balance the use of technology with teaching your child to be aware of their surroundings and rely on their instincts.

Encourage open communication with your child

Open communication is key in keeping your child safe from kidnapping. Create a safe and non-judgmental space where your child feels comfortable sharing their concerns and experiences with you. Encourage them to talk about their day and any encounters or situations that made them feel uneasy. By maintaining open lines of communication, you can address any potential risks or issues promptly and effectively.

Practice safety drills with your child

Just like fire drills, practicing safety drills with your child can help them respond effectively in case of an emergency. Conduct regular drills where you simulate different scenarios, such as being approached by a stranger or getting lost. Teach your child how to react and what steps to take to ensure their safety. By practicing these drills, your child will feel more confident and prepared in real-life situations.

Empowering parents to keep their children safe

Safeguarding our children from kidnapping while walking to school is a top priority for parents. By understanding the risks, educating our children, and implementing these essential tips, we can enhance their safety and give ourselves peace of mind. Remember that prevention is key, and it is crucial to have open lines of communication with your child.