After 2 attempted kidnappings at local schools, here are safety tips you should tell your child

Recently, two separate attempted kidnappings have happened at schools in Wake County.

A man in a car asked a Root Elementary student to get in his car. In a separate incident, a man tried to grab a student walking to Martin Middle School in Raleigh.

Raleigh police have stepped up patrols, and they do not believe the two incidents are connected.

The frightening events have parents and students worrying and wondering: How can we keep our children safe?

Second child abduction attempt reported outside Raleigh school within days

Expert shares tips for staying safe

Bryan Griffin at Quest Martial Arts Raleigh has some tips for parents to share with their children.

1. While walking in public, be aware of what is going on around you – which means not having earbuds in your ears or your eyes glued to a phone screen.
2. If someone grabs you, roar like a lion. Drop, scream, kick and yell. Movements and sounds draw attention to what's happening and could attract help – or scare the attacker away.
3. Learn basic self-defense. Get low, twist and turn, or even strike at the attacker. You can even hit them with your phone if that's all you have – a smack across the eye socket with a cell phone will hurt!
4. Your best chance of survival is to not allowing the attacker to take you away. Do not go with them. Do not comply. Fight, scream, run.
5. Never walk anywhere alone.
6. Report suspicious activity. Call 911 if you think danger is nearby.