You must report immediately to law enforcement if any of the following apply:
The child is under 13.
The child has a disability, mental health, or behavioral challenge that makes them more vulnerable.
The child is with someone who may endanger them.
The child is in a dangerous or life-threatening situation.
The child’s disappearance is out of character or inconsistent with their normal behavior.
After reporting, get a missing child report number from law enforcement and provide it to your child welfare professional.
What to Do
If none of the above apply, you may take up to 4 hours to actively search before contacting law enforcement.
During this time:
Search the child’s belongings and favorite spots.
Call/text the child’s phone.
Check their social media or online activity.
Contact friends, relatives, or anyone they might be with.
Reach out to their school or employer if applicable.
If you still can’tlocate the child after 4 hours, or at any time you believe they’re unsafe: call local law enforcement right away. After Contacting Law Enforcement
Notify your child welfare professional immediately.
If you haven’t made the report, they are required to do so right away.
The agency will file official notices and update records in the state’s system (FSFN) within requiredtimeframes.