WHY We Teach Think First & Stay Safe

In today’s world …

• 1 in 10 children are sexually abused before the age of 18. After 20 years of focusing on prevention, this shows an 11-13% drop, or fewer incidents of child abuse! 
• The most common ages of children when sexual abuse occurs are between ages 8 and 12 years old. 
• More than 90% of all sexual abuse victims know their abuser. Over 50% of the offenders are household members, and 38% are already acquaintances of the victims. 
• 80% of sexual assaults occur at home; 49% in broad daylight. 

Incidents in Our Community & Nation

• National news has heightened awareness of the issues of lures and child sexual abuse.  
• Local incidents of abuse and lures noted in the media have brought the issue closer to home for many.
• This has created an opportune time to mention to school personnel, parents, and other concerned community members that we have this free program available to schools.
• Some are even asking how they can help get it into their child’s school or youth group.

The National Weather Service has shown that increased awareness and preparedness helps reduce deaths from fierce storms.

• Using this same combination, we can and will help safeguard our children from abuse, especially from lures that can short circuit one's basic instincts.