PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH (WTOL) - It would be a scary situation for any parent.
This week, a white van with two white males in it approached a child at a bus stop on Hufford Rd. in Perrysburg Township, according to a police report.
The child did not respond to the strangers, which is what police say was the right move to make.
"The child just stayed where he was supposed to stay for the bus stop and didn't approach the vehicle, which is what we tell all parents to instruct their children to do. It's what we teach at safety town," said Detective Sergeant Todd Curtis with the Perrysburg Township Police Department.
Since the incident the department has put extra patrol cars out throughout the mornings, specifically on Hufford Road.
Officers encourage parents to stress the importance of not acknowledging strangers to their children.
But there are other ways to keep your kids and other kids in your neighborhood safe.
Police say if your child waits at a bus stop alone and no one is home at your house, have a neighbor keep an eye out.
"Have a neighbor that you can make contact with and let them know there is a problem, or you're scared of something, and you want the police called," said Detective Sergeant Curtis.
Officers also encourage the entire community to be alert for suspicious activity around bus stops.
"You know if they see a vehicle that is stopping or cruising by bus stops to call us or take a picture on your cell phone if you're able to safety do so," said Detective Sergeant Curtis.
Of course, the safest option, if you are able, would be waiting with your child at the bus stop until they are comfortable being alone.
