SC agency offers tips on spotting child abuse

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — April is child abuse prevention month, and social services advocates are urging South Carolinians to be aware of ways to keep kids safe.

The state Department of Social Services says its agents investigated more than 17,500 cases of abuse or neglect last year.

Officials say children who have been abused may show sudden changes in behavior or school performance. They also might show physical signs, like unexplained burns and bruises, or a fear of a parent or caretaker.

Children who are suffering emotional abuse might act overly mature or immature or display extreme behavioral changes.

More information and tips are available at www.dss.sc.gov or http://www.scchildren.org .