Today's news regarding Lauren Huxley's abuser getting 20yrs, and then a following news story about a serial rapist in Western Sydney really got me thinking today about just how dangerous it is on the streets these days.

I started wondering, what can parents do, to ensure that their children

have the least chance of getting hurt?

Im sorry that this advice is mostly targeted for Australians, but I dont know how things work in other countries. Id love to see how they do things in your country, in your comments at the bottom of the page.

Dress Sense

First and foremost I think the way our teens present themselves is a large factor. Now I know I probably sound like a bit of a Nanna saying this, but I believe its important for teens not to dress provocatively when they are out in public. I mean think about it.... If you were a sexual predator, and you were on the prowl, would you go for a girl wearing a short skirt and heels, (easy access, and heels make it harder to get away) or would you choose a girl wearing jeans and sneakers? I know that's a terrible way to look at things, and kids shouldnt have to cover up just because there's sickos out there, but lets face it. It's the new millenium and crime rates are on the rise. Food for thought, I think.

Stick to main roads when walking home.

If a predator is hell bent on catching a victim, he is going to find one no matter where they are and how they are dressed. But I think that reducing all possible temptations is a huge key in protecting our kids today. Encouraging kids to walk home in groups is a good idea, as is getting them to stick to main roads and waiting for their friends or family in a very public place, preferably where cameras are rolling, if they are waiting for someone to pick them up. Maccas and train stations are a great place for this, as there is normally lots of people, and security cameras rolling.

Protection

In the event that an attack does occur, whether it be a physical, or sexual attack, its good to always be prepared. One thing that I learnt in high school, (and I still do it to this day) is that usually when a girl goes out she will have her keys on her. But did you know that keys can make a great weapon to protect yourself? Imagine you are curling your fist in to a ball and about to punch somebody. Now grab your biggest, sharpest key. Place it between your index and rude finger as if you are holding it like a cigarette, and move it towards your wrist more, so that it is sitting near the webbing in your fingers. This can be held either there, or in the next finger, (or use 2 keys if you have time to place them between your fingers) and then whilst holding them in that position, curl your hand into a ball. Imagine how much that would hurt if you were punched in the face (or groin) with that.

Another good thing that girls quite often have on them when they are out, especially teens, is a can of deoderant. Impulse is great for this. Simply spray it in the offender's eyes, and make a run for it. It will have a similar affect to pepper spray and could potentially save your daughter's life.

One thing I will be doing once my boys are old enough is getting them some self defense lessons. It is important that you find a form of self defense that you are happy with, and also one that teaches self defense as just that, self defense, and not a school that is just interested in teaching kids how to fight with their mates. I would love to see this become part of our high school curriculum where students are taught how to defend themselves properly in PE, but unfortunately the department of education seem to think that getting a further long jump or shot put than the person standing next to you is more important.

000 and 112

Ok so I'd be very surprised if you are living in Australia and have never heard of 000. It's the equivalent to the American 911. Its the emergency number you call for Police, Ambulance, and Fire.

But have you heard of 112?

112 is a very handy number that can be called from any mobile phone, provided they have enough battery.

The phone can still have the keylock on, and be out of range, it may even have its sim card removed, but you can still call 112 and be connected with emergency services. I think that it is therefore imperative that we educate our children about this number as soon as they own their first mobile phone.

What should your child do if they are attacked?

Call 000 or 112 as soon as possible. Even before an attack if they are suspicious of someone following or watching them. If its not safe to talk, leave the call connected, and they will trace the call and come find your child.

If your child is sexually assaulted, one of the best things they can do is tell them to scratch the perpetrator. Dig your nails in, and draw as much blood as you can. When it comes time to do the rape kit, the more skin, blood, hair, and fibre they can get out from under your nails, the better chance they have of identifying who it was and locking them up for a very long time so they cant hurt anyone else.

Make lots of noise. The more noise the better. The more peoples attention you can grab the safer you will be. If they do happen to get a hold of you, kick, scratch, punch, scream, pull their hair, bite, do whatever you have to do to get away.

And lastly,

Trust your gut.

Ever heard the phrase 'women's intuition?' Well mine came before I was actually a woman. Yes, kids get it too.

Teach your kids that if something doesnt feel or sound right, TELL SOMEONE. It's better to cry wolf and for it to be nothing, than to say nothing, and before you know it, it's too late.

I hope Ive helped save someone's kids out there because I would hate to see any Minti member's kids becoming statistics.