The Importance of Safety II - Human Trafficking | New Heights Educational Group, Inc.

The Importance of Safety II – Human Trafficking

Posted January 17, 2019

Human trafficking is something that travelers should be aware when traveling. Human trafficking is a type of slavery in which one is forced into sexual acts or labor without his or her free will, as the kidnapper will use blackmail or force to make the victims obey. If you see someone in need of help, try not get involved directly, but get help from law enforcement. Human trafficking is dangerous, and you could easily get hurt.

Safety tips for children:

Learn how and when to call 911.
Learn the difference between “OKAY” and “NOT OKAY.”
If you get kidnapped, use force in any way possible to get away.
Avoid taking shortcuts when you are out walking.
Run to safety if you’re scared by someone.

Here you can find more tips for children: https://www.allprodad.com/26-tips-to-keep-your-kids-safe-from-abduction/

But don’t be worried only for the safety of your children. Make sure to be safe yourself!

According to an article published by Insider Monkey, the top four worst states for human trafficking are:

California – 705 cases in 2017
Texas – 433 cases
Florida – 329 cases
Ohio – 191 cases

For more information, check out these links:

Why do those states have so many human trafficking victims?

California is a sanctuary state. San Diego, Los Angeles and San Francisco are labeled as the top cities for human trafficking in California by the FBI. http://www.capoliticalreview.com/capoliticalnewsandviews/california-1-in-human-trafficking-cases-sanctuary-state-the-cause/
Texas is a hot spot for transporting victims from one place to another. https://spectrumlocalnews.com/tx/austin/news/2017/07/25/texas-is-hot-spot-for-human-trafficking-
Florida is a hot spot as it is a booming tourist industry. https://www.wpbf.com/article/human-trafficking-florida-the-facts-need-to-know/30729739
Ohio has several factors affecting human trafficking: five major highways, strip clubs, farmland, and a large translent and immigrant population. https://spectrumlocalnews.com/tx/austin/news/2017/07/25/texas-is-hot-spot-for-human-trafficking-

Here is a list of what characteristics human traffickers prefer in their victims:

Female
Child
Coming from a marginalized population
Coming from poverty
Growing up in an abusive home
Runaway
Little or no education

How can you protect yourself if you fall in one of those categories? You can’t really! You can’t change the fact that you’re a female or that you come from a marginalized population. What you can do is be aware of your surroundings and be prepared to protect yourself and the people dear to you!

Here are some helpful tips on how to spot a trafficker:

Be aware of how traffickers recruit people.
Traffickers makes false promises of a better life.
Beware of befriending a person who showers you with gifts and affection.
Do not make decisions under the influence.
Listen to the intuitive voice in your head.
Do internet searches and background checks.

You can learn more of helpful tips at this website: https://www.more.com/lifestyle/protect-yourself-and-children-becoming-victims-human-trafficking

If you’re traveling somewhere by yourself, with family or friends, always look around you to check for suspicious activity.

Victims of human trafficking are usually:

Frightened, ashamed or nervous
Avoiding eye contact
Under control of a companion
Unable to move freely
Unsure of their destination

They might also have:

Visible scars, wounds or bruises
Few or no personal belongings

You can even try to stop a human trafficking situation if your instincts tell you that the person requires immediate help, but be aware of your safety first! Try not to do anything too rashly that will get you into trouble or even hurt yourself.

Check out this website for more helpful tips and ideas: https://www.dressember.org/blog/traveltips.

Countries and law enforcement are trying to stop human trafficking everywhere.

To be safe, try not to travel in large groups of people and be aware of your and your kids’ surroundings. The three states with the most cases of human trafficking are California, Texas and Florida, so be extra cautious when traveling in those places.

If a situation arises where it will be safe for you and the victim, try to stop the trafficker; otherwise call 911 and wait for the law enforcement to arrive. For safety, especially when alone, carry pepper spray. And remember, always be safe!

Helpful Websites: