The importance of educating children about stranger danger has been stressed by Hawkesbury police in recent weeks.
Following an incident where a child was approached by a stranger in a car outside a school in Richmond last week, police are asking parents to talk with their children and come up with an emergency plan.
Parents are advised to teach their children to always walk and stay with friends, and to shout ‘‘No!’’ if they are unsure of a situation or are approached by someone they don’t know.
Detective Inspector Paul McHugh said parents should have ongoing conversations with their children about stranger danger.
‘‘If your children walk, ride or catch public transport to school, if possible have your children travel in groups rather than alone,’’ he said.
‘‘Educate children on the dangers: don’t speak to strangers, never ever go anywhere with a stranger no matter what they might say, stay on main thoroughfares, don’t take short cuts through quiet, out of the way locations.’’
Inspector McHugh said parents should report any incident immediately.
‘‘The earlier it is reported, the earlier police can respond and investigate,’’ he said.
‘‘Have your child write down as much information as they can remember regarding descriptions of vehicles etc.’’
