AMBER ALERT empowers law enforcement, the media and the public to combat abduction by sending out immediate, up-to-date information that aids in the child's safe recovery.

• AMBER ALERT may be activated only by law enforcement agencies.
• AMBER ALERT is intended only for the most serious, time-critical child abduction cases.
• AMBER ALERT is not intended for cases involving runaways or parental abduction, except in life-threatening situations.

Criteria for activating an AMBER ALERT

Law enforcement agencies ensure these conditions are met before activating an AMBER ALERT:

• The investigating law enforcement agency confirms an abduction has occurred.
• The victim is 17 years of age or younger, or has a proven mental or physical disability.
• The victim is in imminent danger of serious injury or death.
• There is information available that, if provided to the public, could assist in the child's safe recovery

History of AMBER ALERT

The AMBER ALERT Program originated in Texas in 1996 after 9-year-old Amber Hagerman was abducted and murdered. Texas organized a system that encouraged law enforcement agencies to alert the media following a confirmed child abduction.

Notification Means

Emergency Alert System
Legislation defines a true AMBER ALERT as the activation of the Emergency Alert System (EAS). The EAS message pre-empts radio and television broadcasts and provides information to the public immediately. To attract attention, the messages are preceded and concluded with alert tones.

Changeable Message Signs
Activation of electronic changeable message signs to give real-time information to motorists. As part of the AMBER ALERT system, these signs can transmit information about a confirmed child abduction case. The signs will only be activated for an incident which meets the AMBER ALERT criteria.

What can the public do to help?

• If you witness a child abduction, contact your local law enforcement agency or call 911 immediately!
• Provide information on the location of the abduction and a description of the victim, the suspect and/or any vehicle involved.
• If you hear an AMBER ALERT, watch for the child, suspect and vehicle described in the alert.
• Immediately report any sightings by calling 911 or the telephone number included with the alert. (Do not call 911 to request information about the abduction.)

What parents can do

• Teach your child these safety tips: Never get into anyone's car without your parents' permission.
• Move away from a car that pulls up beside you if you don't know the driver.
• Say, "No, thank you," if a stranger or someone else offers you candy or gifts.
• Never answer the door if you are home alone.
• Don't play in deserted buildings.

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMC)
1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678)
www.missingkids.com