Police in Thunder Bay are trying to track down a motorist who approached a girl on Thursday.

The 16-year-old was waiting for a school bus on Market Street near East Avenue when, she said, a small red car pulled up. The male driver rolled down his window and asked if she wanted a ride.

When she didn't respond, the man drove away.

The girl was so shaken up, she went home, and police were called.

Police said the motorist was about 30 years old and had blonde hair. Another man and woman were also in the car.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call police at 684-1200 or Crime Stoppers at 623-8477. A Crime Stoppers web tip may also be submitted anonymously at www.tipsubmit.com.

In light of this incident, police are urging parents to talk with their children about the dangers of accepting a ride from a stranger. Police advise making a plan with children so they know how to handle a suspicious or uncomfortable event. They say the talk will empower children to be in control of the situation and allow them increased personal safety.

Police are also stressing the importance of getting a licence plate number for incidents involving vehicles, which help in following up the investigation.