Lost Child:Indicators of Risk

There are certain places, types of activities, and behaviours that may increase the vulnerability of your child getting lost or separated from you. These risk factors include:

• Crowded public places (e.g., sporting events, amusement parks, festivals)
• Large unfamiliar outdoor environments where children may explore unsupervised
• Places with many entrances, exits, or hiding places
• Being with a large group of children with not enough adults for appropriate supervision
• Places where direction, location, and landmarks are not easily identified (e.g., hiking in the forest)
• Miscommunication or assumptions between adults as to who is providing direct supervision

There are also some behaviours that children may exhibit that may increase their likelihood of becoming separated from you. For example, a child who:

• Is easily distracted and spontaneous
• Likes to be alone or who wanders
• Likes to take risks or seeks adventure
• Likes to play hiding games