If Your Child is Lost or Missing

A parent's worst nightmare is learning that his or her child is lost or missing. The faster you take these actions, the greater the chances your child will be returned safely.

• 	Child Information Sheet
  	Fill out this Child Information Sheet and keep it in safe place along with a current picture of your child. Click here to view and print the form.

  Immediately call the police.
• Search your home and call neighbors or friends.
• Ask that your child be entered into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) missing-person file.
• Keep a list of all steps taken with a record of names and telephone numbers of the contacts you make.
• Gather current photographs and be ready to provide a description of your child, including clothing worn at the time of disappearance, personal items taken, and any identifying marks.
• Contact 911 or your local law enforcement agency first and then call the Florida Missing Children Information Clearinghouse (MCIC) at (850) 410-8585 or toll free at 1-888-FL-MISSING (1-888-356-4774).
• Contact the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (1-800-THE-LOST).

Steps to protect your child in advance

Taking these steps now in case your child is ever lost or missing will greatly increase the chances of your child's safe and speedy return:

• Keep a complete written description of your child, including hair and eye color, height, weight, date of birth, and specific physical attributes. To make sure you include all pertinent information, print and fill out this SAFE STEPS Child Information Sheet, keep it in a safe place.
• Take color photographs of your child every six months. School portraits are preferable.
• Make sure your dentist prepares full charts on your child and
  updates them with each exam.
• Find out from your doctor where your child’s medical records are located. All permanent scars, birthmarks, broken bones, and medical needs should be recorded.
• Arrange with your local police department to have your child fingerprinted. The police department will give you the fingerprint card; they will not keep a record of your child’s prints.
• You may also be able to obtain a sample of your child’s DNA, which may be useful for identification purposes. Be certain that you maintain the only record of the DNA sample.

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