What is the code for a missing child alert?

The code for a missing child alert is referred to as Code Amber. This system is specifically designed to disseminate information about abducted children quickly and effectively to the public and law enforcement agencies to maximize the chances of a safe recovery. The name "Amber" is derived from Amber Hagerman, a young girl who was abducted and murdered in Texas in 1996, which led to the creation of this urgent alert system.

The purpose of the Code Amber alerts is to immediately mobilize resources in the search for the child and to inform the community about the situation. This swift communication includes details such as the description of the child, the suspected abductor, and the vehicle used in the abduction, if applicable.

Other codes listed—like Code Alert, Code Silver, and Code Yellow—are associated with different emergencies or situations. Code Silver often pertains to situations involving an active shooter or a threat within a facility, while Code Yellow can refer to situations involving potential threats that are not as high-risk. Code Alert may vary in definition across jurisdictions but does not specifically refer to missing children. Knowing the distinctions between these codes is crucial for effective emergency response and communication.