It is our position that immediate action should be taken if a child is suspected of being abused or neglected. Today ends National Child Abuse Prevention Month, though the community should remain under constant vigil. In just a year, 40 Hoosier children died from abuse and neglect, according to a recent report by the state Dept. of Child Services.

The report indicated that unemployment, low income, substance abuse and domestic violence are factors in many child-abuse deaths. The report also found a pattern of child deaths at the hands of parents’ intimate partners, which is a trend that has continued year to year. DCS says it is asking parents to think carefully about with whom they leave their children.

“When you have a child, and particularly a small child, left in the care of someone with no emotional bond with the child, with low to no parenting skills, and managing multiple stressors, tragedy can happen in an instant,” said John Ryan, DCS chief of staff.

The department is asking that everyone do their part to help protect kids. Pay attention and reach out if you need help or know someone who might.

To report abuse, call the Indiana state hotline at 800-800-5556. Parents, if you need help, call 1-800-CHILDREN.