Using Security and Surveillance to keep kids safe
Blog Post: In Honor of Audrii Cunningham — Using Security & Surveillance to Keep Kids Safe
Introduction
This week, we dedicate our KIDSAFE episode to the memory of 11-year-old Audrii Cunningham, whose life was tragically stolen far too soon. Audrii disappeared on February 15, 2024, while waiting for her school bus in Polk County, Texas. Thanks to crucial surveillance footage, her abductor was identified and brought to justice—but the heartbreaking outcome reminds us all why we must act with urgency.
At KIDSAFE, our mission is clear: to speak for those whose voices have been silenced, whose lives have been stolen, and to shine a light into the darkest places so others like Audrii can be saved. We believe prevention begins with awareness, preparation, and community action. That’s why we’re focusing this week’s episode on the first “S” in our modular system—Security & Surveillance.
Podcast Summary: 10 Ways Security & Surveillance Can Protect Children
In this powerful episode, we break down 10 essential ways to use technology, tools, and strategies to shield children from predators:
Install Comprehensive Home Security Systems – With door/window sensors and alarm integration, families are alerted instantly to unauthorized access.
Use Smart Doorbell Cameras – Devices like Ring or Nest help monitor entryways and can capture vital footage of any activity near your home.
Position Outdoor Cameras for Driveway and Street Views – In Audrii Cunningham’s case, camera footage was instrumental in identifying the suspect vehicle and piecing together her final moments.
Implement Motion-Activated Lighting – Lights triggered by movement deter unwanted visitors and can alert you to unexpected presence around your home.
Secure Windows with Locks and Sensors – Often overlooked, windows are common entry points and should be equipped with alerts and reinforced locks.
Monitor Online Activity with Parental Control Apps – With predators lurking online, tools like Bark, Net Nanny, and Qustodio help parents monitor for grooming behavior and risky interactions.
Educate Children on Safety & Emergency Protocols – Teach kids about risk, including the fact that many dangers come from people they know, not strangers. Roleplay scenarios and create a family password system.
Use GPS Tracking Devices – Wearable devices or smartwatches offer real-time tracking, essential for rapid response if a child goes missing.
Establish Neighborhood Watch Programs – An engaged community is a safer community. Groups can identify suspicious behavior and respond quickly.
Review and Update Security Measures Regularly – Technology evolves. Make sure your systems are current, functional, and secure from digital vulnerabilities.
More Than Tools—It’s a Mindset
We can’t rely on technology alone. Real safety comes from open conversations, proactive preparation, and community accountability. Children must feel safe coming forward. Families must feel empowered to act. And predators must know we are watching, organizing, and fighting back.
Audrii’s case was not the first. Tragically, it won’t be the last. But if her story moves us to action—if one child is saved because a parent installed a camera or had a hard conversation—then we honor her memory with purpose.
Listen to the Full Episode
🎧 Listen Now to “Security & Surveillance: Keeping Kids Safe from Predators”
This 10-minute episode is filled with practical tools, real-world examples, and urgent advice that could make all the difference.
Resources to Help You Stay Informed & Protected
Top Parental Control Apps: Bark, Net Nanny, Qustodio, Norton Family, Google Family Link
Join our trainings at: RISEUP Phoenix Trauma and Crisis Institute
Donate now to support our fight against abduction, exploitation, and trafficking through our 501C3 Non-profit Battle2be :
Final Thoughts
We fight for the missing. We speak for the silenced. And we refuse to let darkness win.
In honor of Audrii, and every child who didn’t make it home—we rise. We prepare. We protect.
Together, we can make our homes, communities, and digital spaces safer.
Stay safe. Stay ready. Stay KIDSAFE.
