Code Adam | A Program of NCMEC

Step 1

Get a description.

When a child is reported missing, immediately gather key details — and a photo if available.

Name, age, gender
Hair and eye color
Height and weight (approximate)
Clothing, including shoes
Any special needs or medical conditions, and whether the child is verbal or may respond to their name

Escort the parent or guardian to a central location — typically the entrance — to assist with identification.

Step 2

Communicate "Code Adam."

Immediately call "Code Adam" using any available method — PA system, radios, earpieces, or direct staff notification.

Share the child's description clearly with all available staff.
If no communication system is available, notify staff verbally and directly to begin the search immediately.

Step 3

Urgently search, secure, and call 911.

All available staff begin searching immediately while 911 is called without delay.

Assigned staff monitor entrances, exits, restrooms, and back areas.
At exits: if a child matches the description, politely delay them and notify management.
Ask the child their name and who they're with.
Provide law enforcement with all known details.
If available, preserve and share surveillance footage.

Step 4

Note who the child is with.

When the child is located, take note of who they're with — and respond accordingly.

If Safe and Alone:

Reunite the child with their parent or guardian.

If With an Unknown Adult:

Attempt to delay them and alert management — but do not put yourself or others at risk.
If the adult leaves the property, provide police with a description of the individual, vehicle information, and direction of travel if possible.

Step 5

Declare all clear.

Once the situation is resolved, close the loop with the team.

Announce "Code Adam canceled."
Report the incident to management.

Learn what to do when a child goes missing.

You’ve learned the steps. Now let’s make sure they landed.

A parent rushes up to you and says their child is missing. What is the FIRST thing you should do?

You've gathered a description of the missing child. What should your Code Adam announcement include?

A Code Adam has been announced. Imagine you're a stock clerk in the middle of receiving a large delivery. What should you do?

You're stationed at the exit during a Code Adam. A man approaches with a young girl in a pink dress — matching the description. What's the best way to handle this?

The missing child has been found safe and reunited with her parent. What is the final step?

Missing copy

Know what to do when every second counts.

Get a description.

Communicate "Code Adam."

Urgently search, secure, and call 911.

Note who the child is with.

Declare all clear.

Created in memory of Adam Walsh

Learn what to do when a child goes missing.

Training Film Player

You’ve learned the steps. Now let’s make sure they landed.

A parent rushes up to you and says their child is missing. What is the FIRST thing you should do?

You've gathered a description of the missing child. What should your Code Adam announcement include?

A Code Adam has been announced. Imagine you're a stock clerk in the middle of receiving a large delivery. What should you do?

You're stationed at the exit during a Code Adam. A man approaches with a young girl in a pink dress — matching the description. What's the best way to handle this?

The missing child has been found safe and reunited with her parent. What is the final step?

Missing copy

Get a description.

Communicate "Code Adam."

Urgently search, secure, and call 911.

Note who the child is with.

Declare all clear.

Created in memory of Adam Walsh