When Relatives Go Missing
It is every parent’s nightmare: what do you do if one of your children is suddenly missing? More importantly, what do you do if a search for your missing child turns up nothing and time passes? These questions are equally valid for people taking care of elderly or mentally challenged relatives who are not able to care for themselves. We have all read stories about how families have been reunited after a traumatic disappearance. While no one wishes to raise false hopes, sometimes we can take measure to protect our families against long-term absences.
For example, one blogger advises people to check with old friends when you need to find a missing family member. As a parent or custodian you should have a list of your dependent’s friends, their addresses, and phone numbers. You should also create a little network of close neighbors whom you can depend on to help you quickly find a missing relative.
Some families equip their children or other dependents with transmitter devices to help keep track of where the relatives may go. This is, of course, a prudent measure but it should only be used as a secondary measure. You should know where your dependent intends to be every hour of the day and make sure she or he is there. Some non-government organizations work with wireless technology to help families find missing children.
This is not a new topic. The news media have been suggesting the use of child safety devices for many years. But this is an important area of many families’ lives that is often overlooked. You can still do something today to help protect your family before a crisis erupts. At the very least you should look into the available options and determine what you can or should do, just in case.
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