📞 NCMEC: 1-800-843-5678
📞 CALL 911 NOW
📞 NCMEC: 1-800-843-5678
⚠ FOUND ALERT FLAG™ — 5 TIERS
TIER 1 — APPROACH ALERT
Approach slowly from the front. Give at least 10 feet of space. Do NOT run toward the child. Do NOT crowd. Kneel down to their level. Move deliberately and calmly.
TIER 2 — COMMUNICATION ALERT
This child may not respond verbally when frightened. Do NOT repeat yourself louder. Show written words on a phone. One person only. No audience. Wait for response at their own pace.
TIER 3 — SENSORY ALERT
Loud sounds, bright lights, and crowds can cause panic and running. Move to a quiet, calm area. Speak softly. Do NOT draw attention from bystanders.
TIER 4 — MEDICAL ALERT
Do NOT grab or pull arms. Do NOT make her stand up quickly. Give NO food, drink, or medication without parent confirmation. Call 911. Check medication timing with parent.
TIER 5 — IDENTITY PROTECTION
THIS IS A CHILD. If she appears older than her age, she is still a child. Do NOT treat her as an adult or runaway. Black children are disproportionately misclassified — treat this as the emergency it is. Contact parent immediately.
DO NOT:
- Grab or pull her arms — this can cause injury
- Raise your voice or shout her name repeatedly
- Have multiple people approach at once
- Make her stand up or walk quickly
- Give any food, drink, or medication
- Leave her alone at any point
- Assume she is a runaway
✅ HOW TO APPROACH:
- Stay calm — your calm becomes her calm.
- Approach slowly from the front. Kneel to her level.
- Speak softly: "You are safe. I am here to help."
- If no verbal response: show written words on your phone.
- Keep bystanders back — one person only.
- Stay with her until 911 or her parent arrives.