Police in Chatham-Kent are offering advice to parents to protect their children from abduction.
A study by the Canadian Centre for Child Protection closely examined 147 cases of child abduction between 1970 and 2010.
Chatham Kent Police Services Public information Officer Kelly Helbin says the numbers point to some very specific patterns. "In 68% of those cases the child was alone. 41% of the abductions occurred in June, July and August. 53% were last seen between 3pm and 10pm. 45% occurred on a Friday or Saturday. 67% were in transit at the time of abduction."
Helbin told AM800's 'The Afternoon News' that the buddy system is the best way to keep kids safe. "In 68%, that's a high percentage of the cases, the child was alone when they were taken. If they're walking with a buddy, that chance decreases quite a bit. Make them walk with somebody, somebody that they're comfortable with. Whether it's just a friend or another adult."
Helbin wants parents to remember, bad things can happen anywhere. "Know where your children are. We do trust that we live in safe neighbourhoods, but this can happen anywhere. It's unfortunate but I think we all have to be aware there are people out there that don't have good intentions."