Douglas County Sheriff's Office distributes Child Safety ID kits to students

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Nev. - Elementary students in Douglas County are receiving free Child Safety ID kits from the Douglas County Sheriff's Office (DCSO). These kits are a helpful resource for parent nd law enforcement to identify a child in case of an emergency.

The school district office will be distributing the kits where were made possible by a generous donation from the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Advisory Council.

These kits are designed to contain a small bag for sampling of child’s DNA and a self-rolling ink strip for fingerprints. Each booklet includes sections for medical information and physical description, as well as a spot for a recent photo of your child; all of which is maintained by the parent/guardian(s) and given to law enforcement in the event of an emergency.

“Should anything happen, and your child goes missing, we want to be prepared to respond quickly with accurate knowledge about your child,” said DCSO Sheriff Dan Coverley. “We hope the kits don’t have to be used, but in those critical minutes and hours after a child is reported missing, it will serve law enforcement as the best tool for gathering information quickly about your child. That’s why I am urging parents to look out for these kits in your kids backpacks, fill them out and maintain them.”

How to Obtain an ID Kit:

If your child is in a Douglas County elementary school, a kit will be sent home with them, please check their backpack

How to Use an ID Kit:

- Start by filling out each section of the Child’s Personal Information
- Insert an updated photo of your child, fill out the date and age the child is in photograph
- Indicate child’s characteristics
- Using the ink strip, follow the fingerprinting grid
- - Collect 20 strands of hair for DNA sample, store in freezer to preserve
- Have your child’s dentist complete a dental chart
- Review the child safety tips
- Keep the kit in a secure, accessible location

Each year 500,000 children are reported missing in the United States and Canada according to Every Second Counts, LLC. An ID booklet will provide a measure of extra security where every second counts. If your child is missing, call emergency dispatch 9-1-1 and be ready to provide your up-to-date Child Safety ID Kit.Office Advisory Council.