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Officially launched in 1996, AMBER Alerts are seemingly on the rise. But what exactly are they? And what should you do when you receive one?
In short, Amber Alerts are proven, effective ways of helping to locate abducted children.
AMBER stands for America’s Missing: Broadcast Emergency Response . It was initially created after the 1996 murder of 9-year-old Amber Hagerman in Arlington, Texas. She was kidnapped while riding her bicycle not far from her own home.
In total, more than 1200 children have been found safe after AMBER Alerts were issued. The system is used in all 50 U.S. states, the District of Columbia, Indian country, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and 31 countries outside the U.S.
The plan behind it is simple: Use every available technology, including EAS (Emergency Alert System), text messages, internet radio, television, wireless devices, cable TV, and more, to spread the word about child abduction as quickly as possible.
What Should You Do If You Recieve An Amber Alert?
The first thing you want to do after receiving an AMBER Alert is to simply read and digest the information. Note the area the alert originated from. Pay attention to the make and model of any car information, or the license plate. Pay special attention to any description given about the potential suspect and victim.
The next thing you’ll want to do is be on the lookout. Watch for the child or vehicle that was described in the alert.
Lastly, if you see anything that emergency authorities need to know, then call 911. Report any pertinent information as quickly as possible. One thing you don’t want to do, however, is to call 911 to request information. While authorities do want your help, 911 should only be dialed in the instance of immediate emergencies.
In Ohio this year there have been at least 6 AMBER Alerts issued. That’s in addition to the 15 total alerts in Ohio in 2022 and 2023.
For more information about AMBER Alerts, you can visit missingkids.org/amber .
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