Though cases of child abduction don't happen regularly in central Wisconsin, there are more opportunities for them in the summer.

Children are out of school and are often away from their parents.

"It's very important to keep the lines of communication open with your child. Never assume that they know the safety rules," said Linda Salzman, manager of the Children Service Society's Family Resource Center in Wausau.

She suggests keeping a close eye: know where your child is and who he or she is with at all times.

"If they go to parks or any other public places make sure they're with a friend or a group of friends. I think that's important," she said.

According to the U.S. Justice Department, children avoid abductions 89 percent of the time through their own actions. By yelling, resisting, attracting attention or running away.

It's usually people the child knows that ends up hurting them.

"Often times when children are victims of crime they are victimized by people that they do know," said Dept. Chief Bryan Hilts of the Wausau Police Department.

Salzman urges parents to talk with their kids.

"Have your child know if they feel uncomfortable with some other adult that they shouldn't go with them, they should always ask your permission."

There is no substitute for a parent's supervision, but that just isn't always possible, especially in the summer.

Taking time to listen can help build feelings of security.

"It's a different season, kids are in a different structured environment. Have a new set of rules, go over the rules with your child, make sure they understand," Salzman said.

It could be a matter of life and death.