The search for a missing child should always begin without hesitation.  The following information consists of steps you should take in the event of a missing child:

In the event of a missing child:

• Immediately search the last known location of the child.  If you are within a residence (house or apartment), search in, around and under all areas and things of which a child may have access. 
• If a child is missing in a public place, such as a store, shopping center or recreational park, immediately inform management or security service.  
• If the child remains missing, without delay, contact local law enforcement. Make sure the person responding to your call receives the child's personal information (name, age, and your contact information) and an accurate physical description, including all articles of clothing present at time of disappearance.  Be sure that local law enforcement follows federal guidelines by including your child's information into the National Crime Information Center Missing Persons File, also known as NCIC.  
• After contacting local law enforcement, request assistance with your search effort from all persons in the immediate area of the child's last known location.  
• Also, utilize the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children by calling 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678).