Protect Your Child
Child Safety Resources — Tips, Guides & Information for Parents
Free child safety resources from Protect Your Child. Learn how to protect your child, what to do if a child goes missing, and how to create a complete identification record.
Child Safety Information for Every Family
Protect Your Child has been helping families protect their children since 1994. This resource page brings together the most important child safety information, tips, and guides — from creating a child ID kit to what to do in an emergency. Our goal is to give every parent the knowledge and tools they need to keep their children safe.
Child Safety Tips for Parents
Create a Child ID Kit Today
A child ID kit — including fingerprints, a DNA sample, a recent photo, and personal characteristics — is the single most important thing a parent can do. In an emergency, law enforcement can use this information immediately. Update the kit every 6-12 months as your child grows.
Keep a Recent Photo on File
Keep a recent, clear photo of your child on your phone and in your child ID kit. Update it every 6 months. In a missing child situation, a current photo is one of the first things law enforcement will request.
Teach Your Child Their Full Name and Address
Make sure your child knows their full name, your full name, your home address, and your phone number. Practice regularly so the information is automatic.
Establish Safe Adults Your Child Can Trust
Identify 3-5 trusted adults your child can go to for help — neighbors, teachers, family friends. Make sure your child knows who these people are and how to reach them.
Talk About Stranger Safety Without Creating Fear
Teach children the difference between safe and unsafe situations — not just 'stranger danger.' Focus on safe behaviors: never go anywhere without telling a trusted adult, always go with a buddy, and trust your instincts.
Know Your Child's Online Activity
Online predators are a real threat. Know what platforms your child uses, who they communicate with, and what information they share. Set clear rules about online privacy.
Have an Emergency Plan
Every family should have a written emergency plan — what to do if a child doesn't come home, who to call, and where to meet. Practice the plan with your children.
Store Your Child's ID Kit Securely
Store your completed child ID kit in a fireproof safe or safety deposit box. Do not give the kit to your child or store it where others can access it. Update it regularly.
Emergency Resources
National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC)
NCMEC is the national clearinghouse for missing and exploited children, authorized by Congress in 1984. NCMEC operates the 24-hour hotline 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678), the missingkids.org database, the Take 25 campaign, and the KidSmartz child safety education program. NCMEC recommends all families maintain a complete child ID record including fingerprints, photo, and DNA.
Visit siteFBI Missing Persons
The FBI maintains a national database of missing persons. If a child is missing, contact local law enforcement immediately — they can enter the child into the national database.
Visit siteAMBER Alert System
The AMBER Alert system broadcasts information about missing children through emergency alerts. Law enforcement activates AMBER Alerts when specific criteria are met.
Visit siteChild Safety — Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my child goes missing?
Call 911 immediately. Do not wait — there is no waiting period for reporting a missing child. Have your child's ID kit ready to give to law enforcement. Contact the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at 1-800-THE-LOST.
How often should I update my child's ID kit?
Update your child's photo every 6 months and their personal characteristics (height, weight) every year. The DNA sample and fingerprints do not need to be updated — they remain accurate throughout your child's life.
What information should a child ID kit contain?
A complete child ID kit should include: a recent photograph, fingerprints (all ten fingers), a DNA sample, height and weight, eye and hair color, distinguishing marks, and emergency contact information. Our Complete DNA Kit and HealthSafe ID Kit include all of these.
At what age should I create a child ID kit?
As early as possible — ideally at birth. The earlier you create a kit, the more complete your child's identification record will be. Update it regularly as your child grows.
Is a DNA sample better than fingerprints for identification?
Both are valuable. Fingerprints are the fastest form of identification in most situations. DNA is the most definitive and can be used when fingerprints are unavailable or unclear. Our Complete DNA Kit includes both.
Create your child's ID kit today:
Create Your Child's ID Kit Today
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