Yesterday, a friend’s pre-teen son went missing for a few hours. Although everything turned out ok -they found him and his friend safe and sound- it was a reminder how quickly life can change. Here is some sage advice given by the police officers that can help you talk to your own kids about what to do if they ever get lost…

Last Night the LCSO Officers spoke to C and A about the things they did right and the things they did wrong when they were lost in the woods. I never ever want anyone to experience the fear that gripped us so I want to share what they shared with the boys (and express our thanks to them).

What they did right:
1-stayed together!!! (that’s it!)

What they did wrong:
1-Cal abandoned his sled. They said KEEP YOUR STUFF WITH YOU. It will make it easier to find them.
2-Left their cell phones home. Better to break your cell phone sledding than get lost without it.
3-They wandered around houses instead of knocking on a door for help.

Our greatest fear last night that one had slipped or fell on ice and the other tried to help, getting hurt or worse in the process.
-Perfect time to remind our kids to stay off ALL ice.
-Fresh snow can camouflage ice so remind them to stick to paths- that are clear or marked.
-If one gets hurt, the other one calls or runs for help.

In my panic last night a police officer tried to calm me by asking me “You raised a smart son, right?” I couldn’t answer confidently. Make sure you can answer that question confidently. Hopefully you never will need to. Talk to them. Hug them and cherish them.

Parents: make sure you talk to your kids about getting lost and what they should do. Then continue the conversation until they become adults.