KEEPING KIDS SAFE

Each year, more than 700,000 children in the U.S. are reported missing to the police.  About 99% return home safely, but more than 58,000 are abducted by nonfamily members; most are sexually attacked.  How can we keep kids safer?  We asked Ernie Allen, president of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

- Always know where your kids are, and don't leave small children alone.

- Role-play often.  Let your kids tell you what they'd do if a stranger asked them for help in different situations, for example, if he said, Come with me.  Your mom is sick.

- Tell kids they always should get their parent or another adult if a stranger asks them to go somewhere or asks for help, even if it's just directions.

- Teach kids to say no and to follow their instincts to get away.

- Teach kids to be wary of normal-looking strangers too.

- Address fears head-on.  Tell your kids that you love and trust them and will help protect them.

For more help and information, visit www.missingkids.com