AMBER Alerts
The Ontario AMBER Alert is a warning system that quickly alerts the public of a suspected abduction of children who are in imminent danger.
The goal is to broadcast as much information about the child, the abductor and suspect vehicles as quickly as possible so the public can respond with any relevant information that might lead to the safe return of the child.
The Ontario AMBER Alert warning system is ONLY used when there is a suspected abduction of the child.
What should I do when an AMBER Alert is issued?
- Share the AMBER Alert. If a child or vulnerable person is abducted, spreading the information quickly is critical to their safe return.
- Keep an eye out for the child, vulnerable person, suspect and/or the vehicle described in the alert. If you spot them, try to gather as many details as possible, including the specific location where you saw them, the time, the direction they were travelling in and another other identifying details that will help to locate them.
- Call 911 or the phone number included in the alert immediately if you have information related to an AMBER Alert.
- Do not call 911 to request information about the abduction.
When is an AMBER Alert activated?
An AMBER Alert will ONLY be activated if:
- police have confirmed that an abduction has taken place; and
- the victim is a child under 18 years of age; and
- there is reason to believe the victim is in danger of serious physical injury; and
- there is information available that, if broadcasted to the public, could assist in the safe recovery of the victim.
It is important to remember that an AMBER Alert is not always appropriate in every circumstance, and that their continued effectiveness depends on ensuring that they are only used in cases that meet the above criteria.