Parents can shop stress-free following the launch of a Child Safe Zones scheme.
The new scheme, run by Dacorum Business Against Crime – a group that brings together the authorities and local businesses – will help to reunite families that become separated in the town centres on Hemel Hempstead, Berkhamsted and Tring.
Parents can now collect free wristbands for their little ones, on which they can write a contact number.
If youngsters stray from their families, they can look out for Child Safe Zone signs in shop windows, which feature a distinctive bright orange balloon.
Children can wait in these safe areas, where staff will be able to reunite them with their parents.
The scheme’s official launch on Monday was attended by the Mayor of Dacorum Bert Chapman. He said: “The public appeared very enthusiastic about the scheme, and pleased that something is being done to encourage the safety of our children.
“Schemes like this are so important to the community, particularly in busy summer holidays.”
The launch was marked with a colouring competition, above, sponsored by Marlowes Shopping Centre.
Wristbands can be collected from Hemel Hempstead Library, the Roundhouse in Marlowes, the Marlowes and Riverside Shopping Centres, Old Town Hall, and the South Hill Centre in Cemetery Hill.