Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dignity Memorial® Escape School®?
Dignity Memorial Escape School is a nationally recognized abduction prevention program that empowers children and parents by providing them with ways to recognize, avoid or escape potentially dangerous situations. Offered in an entertaining and non-threatening manner, the program teaches children how to differentiate between good and bad strangers, the common lures abductors use, how to "get away, right away" and how to find help when needed.

What is the Dignity Memorial network?
The Dignity Memorial network is made up of over 1,600 funeral, cremation and cemetery providers throughout the United States and Canada. Dignity Memorial funeral homes and cemeteries contribute to their communities through outreach programs that ensure the safety of children and senior citizens, honor the bravery of public servants and preserve the memory of those who have served their country and died in the line of duty.

Why does a funeral, cremation and cemetery company sponsor this program?
These presentations are delivered by certified Dignity Memorial employees who live and work in communities they serve. We, too, are parents, grandparents, aunts or uncles who care deeply about our families and communities. As funeral care providers, we understand the tragedy and trauma associated with the loss of a child. Our goal is to equip every family with the knowledge to be smart, not scared.

Is this similar to the "Stranger-Danger" programs that we heard about when we were young?
No, this is not a 'stranger-danger' program. Strangers are not necessarily bad people. In many cases, a 'stranger' may actually be the person who helps a child in a potentially dangerous situation. In Dignity Memorial Escape School, we teach children how to tell the difference between good and bad strangers by the way they act and not by the way they look.

How many people have been educated in Dignity Memorial Escape School?
Since the program's inception in 1996, our presenters have trained over five million families in the United States and Canada.

How many people have attended your program in the past year?
In 2004, more than 381,000 people attended Dignity Memorial Escape School presentations and nearly 136,000 have participated through May 2005.

Has the Dignity Memorial Escape School program actually helped anyone escape abduction?
Yes, seven children and one adult have credited Dignity Memorial Escape School with saving their lives.

Who can attend the program?
These one-hour presentations are available free of charge to communities where Dignity Memorial Escape School presenters are available. Currently, over 650 certified presenters deliver the program throughout the United States and Canada.

How do I locate a presenter in my area?
Click here for a list of presenters.

What is the most important thing that parents can do to teach their children about abduction?
Because our program is designed to be a catalyst for home-based instruction, parents are encouraged to attend the presentation with their children so they can reinforce the knowledge that leads to smart choices. Teach them to trust their instincts and give them permission to break the rules when they are in danger.

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There is a topic I would like to see addressed. Do you accept requests?
Yes. In fact, many of the articles on this Web site are a result of questions and suggestions from our readers. Submit your ideas to: dmes@sci-us.com.