Recently, two separate attempted kidnappings have happened at schools in Wake County.
A man in a car asked a Root Elementary student to get in his car. In a separate incident, a man tried to grab a student walking to Martin Middle School in Raleigh.
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Raleigh police have stepped up patrols, and they do not believe the two incidents are connected.
The frightening events have parents and students worrying and wondering: How can we keep our children safe?
Expert shares tips for staying safe
Bryan Griffin at Quest Martial Arts Raleigh has some tips for parents to share with their children.
- While walking in public, be aware of what is going on around you – which means not having earbuds in your ears or your eyes glued to a phone screen.
- If someone grabs you, roar like a lion. Drop, scream, kick and yell. Movements and sounds draw attention to what's happening and could attract help – or scare the attacker away.
- Learn basic self-defense. Get low, twist and turn, or even strike at the attacker. You can even hit them with your phone if that's all you have – a smack across the eye socket with a cell phone will hurt!
- Your best chance of survival is to not allowing the attacker to take you away. Do not go with them. Do not comply. Fight, scream, run.
- Never walk anywhere alone.
- Report suspicious activity. Call 911 if you think danger is nearby.