Murder of a 12 Year Old Girl - Important Lessons for Staying Safe - Episode 4

12 year-old Yhoana Arteaga of Goodlettville, Tenn. was brutally murdered in her home after texting her mother to tell her there was someone knocking at the door. Her mother discovered Yhoana's lifeless body when the mother arrived home later that day. The child had been bludgeoned to death and - according to police - her clothing was in disarray.While the investigation is ongoing, there are important safety lessons we can learn from this tragedy. Key recommendations include:- Teach your children to never open the door to ANYONE when they're alone without your approval.- Always keep doors locked.- Ensure you and your children know how to dial 911 or the appropriate emergency number for your area.- If a relative or trusted person knocks, instruct your children to call you and follow your instructions. If you determine it's safe to have your child open the door, have your child tell the visitor he or she told you who was at the door.- Whether a child or adult, talk with someone through the door who is knocking after checking the door's peephole or adjacent widow to see who is there. - While not discussed in the podcast, consider installing an audio - video doorbell such as the system from Ring. These systems allow you to talk with someone on your doorstep through your smart phone regardless of whether you are home or away.- Always have a phone in hand. Your phone is a lifeline to police and other help.- Don't assume the story or identity offered by someone knocking is truthful. Criminals use false stories, children, and other ruses to get you to open the door.You'll learn other stay safe actions to keep you and your loved ones safe.