San Tan Valley, a community located 45 miles east of Phoenix, has long been a place where residents felt safe, a place where children were free to play in the streets and families enjoyed the neighborhood park. However, recent events have shaken the community and served as a stark reminder that we must always be vigilant when it comes to the safety of our children.
It was an ordinary day when a 10-year-old girl and her boyfriend walked home, just as they had done countless times before. Little did they know that this day would be different, that a stranger would approach them and their lives would change forever.
He tried to convince the girl to get into the car.
This Caucasian man in his 40s covered much of his face with his hands as he spoke and had a short beard.
The 10-year-old girl was told about the incident involving her brothers and was told to get into the car as quickly as possible. Feeling weird, she asked the man for a “code word” as a test. He was wearing a red shirt. He did not expect this request, so he ran away.
In these circumstances, it is commonly recommended to use a code word to increase child protection. A code word is a secret phrase known only to parents and their children.
According to Busy Parents Online, this term should be easy for children to remember, but difficult for outsiders to understand.
When someone comes to collect the child, they must use the appropriate code word; otherwise, they will not be allowed to have the child with them.
Fortunately, the girl’s family had only recently developed a code word system. Her mother, Brenda James, told ABC15 that we came up with the idea a few months ago. It was mentioned in a recent article. They were lucky in their timing because if they had taken this simple precaution, the girl’s life could have been saved.
Sheriff Mark Lamb said the incident should serve as a warning to parents who are concerned about the dangers of the Internet. Internet predators are a danger, in addition to being careful in public places like malls and parks.
Lamb applauded parents for instilling a code word in their children and teaching them to be wary of strangers. The author hopes that by sharing this story, other parents will be inspired to talk with their children about safety and create emergency plans so that their children know what to do.
Stu Auty, founding president of the Canadian Safe Schools Network and a seasoned education specialist with more than 30 years of experience, advises parents to rely on more than just code words to keep their children safe.
Parents should teach their children to go find the nearest adult if they feel they are being watched, and to alert an adult if they feel a stranger is approaching them, Auty said.
In a world where the safety of our children is a top priority, it is essential that we arm them with the knowledge and practical tools to protect themselves. Code words are just one piece of the puzzle. Open communication between parents and children, education about the potential dangers they may encounter, and instilling a sense of vigilance are all essential elements in keeping our children safe.
A young girl from the San Tan Valley showed incredible presence of mind and courage when faced with a terrifying situation. Her quick thinking and knowledge of the code word undoubtedly saved her from a potentially dangerous encounter.
As parents and guardians, it is our responsibility to ensure that our children are well-prepared to navigate the world safely. The story of this brave 10-year-old girl serves as a reminder that with the right tools and guidance, our children can protect themselves and stay safe in an often unpredictable world.