Be ready in the event your child goes missing

As summer approaches, it's important to be aware that unfortunately, more children tend to go missing during this season. Research shows that there is indeed an increase in missing children cases during the summer months, although the exact reasons for this are not entirely clear.

One theory is that children are simply out of school and have more free time, which increases their exposure to potential dangers. Additionally, families often go on vacations or take trips during the summer months, which can increase the risk of children getting separated from their parents or becoming lost in unfamiliar surroundings. Another possible factor is that during the summer, children are more likely to engage in outdoor activities and spend time in public places, such as parks or shopping centers. This can make it easier for predators to approach them unnoticed.

It's a staggering statistic, but there are steps you can take to protect your child and ensure their safety. One of the most important things you can do is to have information that can help identify your child ready to hand to law enforcement the instant you report your child missing. That's where child ID kits come in. These kits are a simple yet effective tool to help families maintain current photos and descriptive information about their children.

Child ID kits typically include safety tips, record-keeping sections for personal data like photos, identifying features, dental records, medical conditions, and a full fingerprint record. Some kits even include an ink strip for ease of fingerprinting. These kits are available from various sources, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and commercial retailers.

Zoco sells kits both as 5-packs, which is perfect for family and friends, or as a promotional handout for fire departments, schools, governments, or anyone concerned about children's safety to use in their community. 

In addition to having a child ID kit, there are other steps you can take to protect your child. Here are some tips:

• Teach your child about safety: Teach your child about stranger danger, and make sure they know what to do if they are lost or separated from you.
• Keep current photos of your child: Make sure you have current photos of your child on hand, and update them regularly.
• Stay informed: Keep up-to-date on missing children cases in your area, and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.
• Be proactive: Consider enrolling your child in a child safety program, such as the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children's Kidsmartz program.

There are also many resources available to help you protect your child. Here are some other important links to other resources that you may find helpful:

• National Center for Missing & Exploited Children: https://www.missingkids.org/
• FBI Child ID App: https://www.fbi.gov/news/apps/child-id-app
• Amber Alert: https://www.amberalert.gov/

Remember, protecting children is a team effort. By taking proactive steps and being prepared, you can help keep children safe and give yourself peace of mind.