Robservations: Caution at ballparks a sad necessity
Make no mistake, the past few weeks have been a scary time to be a parent in Warren County.
Stories of mystery stalkers, suspicious photographers and attempted abductions are not to be taken lightly at any time, and especially not these days, when amber alerts and hunts for missing children from around the nation dominate the media.
As loathsome a thought as it may be, there are people in this country, in this region — and apparently, in this very county — who are willing to prey upon children. It’s a dark, disturbing notion, but it’s the sad truth.
Now no one needs to be told to make sure their kids are safe. That’s a natural instinct that doesn’t have to be taught — it’s just what you do as a parent.
But the times, they are indeed changing, and as much as we might all hate to face it, some of the places we all used to consider safe for children could now be considered prime hunting grounds for these deviants who are on the lookout for kids.
I can remember a time, and it wasn’t that long ago, when summers were spent at the ballparks. And when I say summers, I mean virtually the entire summer; from dusk until the final game was over, several times a week.
It was the equivalent, I guess, of the 1980s and ’90s trend of “hanging out” at the mall; our folks would drop us off at the ball fields, whether we had a game or not, and we’d wander around. We’d play a game or two of cup-ball, watch our friends in their own little league games, or maybe just go up to the courts and see if anyone lost a tennis ball we could claim.
There was activity everywhere, there were people everywhere, and everywhere was safe.
These days, unfortunately, that’s not always the case.
Summer ball leagues, whether at the city parks or one of the many county fields, are a great way for youngsters to experience exercise, team camaraderie and social fellowship away from school. It’s also time for families to come together and root for their kids, while they enjoy the truly all-American institution of little league.
But parents, please keep in mind the day and age we live in. We don’t need to necessarily tether our kids to the fence to keep them within eyesight and earshot. But exercise some caution, and — to echo this paper’s viewpoint from last week — teach your kids to be cautious, as well.
It’s fortunate, and at the same time a little sad, that the city has instituted a permanent police presence at the local ballparks. Fortunate because these days, you never know who’s lurking around the next bend in the path, but sad because just a few years ago that officer’s presence would never be something we thought we needed.
Make sure your kids know not everyone who speaks to them is their friend, and be sure they realize it’s OK to yell, or run, if they feel scared or threatened. Whether it’s to a policeman on duty, a familiar face in the stands, or a coach, scorekeeper or umpire at one of the fields, let them know the safe places they can go if they’re frightened.
God willing, they’ll never have to use your advice. But being prepared is the best way to avoid being surprised, and being cautious is the key to being safe. And hopefully, with a little added precaution, all of our children can continue to enjoy fun — and safe — summers at the ball fields.