Are you aware of the difference between recovery and identification tools for missing children? Many parents or guardians would be suprised to learn they may have all the identification information available but without current photos with updated descriptions of their child, they may be delaying the recovery process.
The following is from the NCMEC spring 2005 newsletter "The Frontline".
"...It Is a good time to answer some of the questions we are often asked. In our continuing efforts to provide useful information to parents, guardians, and other family members, we’ve singled out some of the common areas of interest regarding a number of topics.
Photo Identification (ID). Families should have a current photograph of their children, and these photographs can often be obtained free-of-charge or for a nominal fee from a number of sources. Parents and guardians should make sure the photograph is a full-face shot, is in color, and captures the way their children really look. Photographs should be taken at least every six months and kept in a safe and readily accessible place. Not only should parents or guardians have a photograph of their children, they should also have a written description. The description should include hair color; eye color; weight; height; date of birth; and any other unique physical attributes such as eyeglasses, braces, or piercings.
Dentition. Dental X-rays, professional dental charting, and bite impressions (tooth prints)are all useful in making identifications but will in no way find a missing child. Parents and guardians should update dental charts every 2 years until children are 18. Dentition may last for many years and can withstand elements such as fire. Parents and guardians can have bite impressions made using Styrofoam® (egg cartons) but should have a person trained by dental professionals take the impression. Please check with your family dentist to determine if this service is offered. This sample should also be stored in a safe and readily accessible place.
Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA). DNA is a key element of what families need to have on hand for their children’s identification and, like fingerprints, will not help find a missing child but is used to identify someone. DNA has become the “gold standard” for all identification matters. NCMEC strongly encourages parents and guardians to take a DNA sample of their children as a precautionary measure in case their children may one day become missing. No one should store DNA except parents and guardians.
Fingerprints. If fingerprints are to be used for identification, they should be taken by a trained professional to help ensure they are properly taken and recorded on a paper stock that will be usable for loading in the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s National Crime Information Center’s computer if a child should become missing.All of these methods of identification can be taken and stored at little or no cost.Retailers, supermarket chains, and other companies often provide opportunities for parents and guardians to have one or more of these identification tools taken for their children. Only parents or guardians should store these items or test results of their children.
Medical Reports. Families should know where their children’s medical records are located. Medical records such as X-rays, permanent scars, blemishes, birthmarks, or broken bones can be helpful in identifying a recovered child. Ask your family doctor if those records can be easily accessed if needed.
Child Safety. Effective child-safety programs are ones children will enjoy and
understand and change children's behavior to help keep them safer. A fundamental premise of prevention education is that children with self-confidence, grounded in safety competence and high self-esteem, are less vulnerable targets for victimization..."
For more information about these and other
safety topics in specific situations, please contact
NCMEC at 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678)
or visit www.missingkids.com
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