As a parent, one of the most terrifying things that can happen is realizing you can’t find your child in your own home. When your child goes missing in your home and won’t respond to your voice, you wonder whether they’ve gotten into something they shouldn’t have or gotten stuck in a dangerous position or situation. If you find yourself in this scenario, it’s important to stay calm and follow some basic steps to ensure you find your child as quickly and safely as possible.

What to Do if Child is Missing in the House WFMC Health

1. Check Dangerous Spots First

The first thing you should do if you realize you can’t find your child is to check the most dangerous places first. This means checking areas like the medicine cabinet, near windows with shade drawstrings, anywhere with standing water, in the garage, near stairs, in the washing machine or dryer, and other places that could be life-threatening for a child. By checking these areas first, you can get to your child faster if they are in a dangerous situation.

2. Check Frequent Areas

After checking all of the areas your child could get into danger, the next thing you should do is to check the areas they frequent or might want to hide in. This means in their room or playroom, in closets, under beds or other furniture, in kitchen cabinets, or in small nooks and crannies. It’s possible your child is hiding, playing, or fell asleep somewhere just out of sight.

If you have a several-story home, check each level thoroughly before moving on. You may also want to check outside areas like patios, porches, and garages in case your child is hiding there. If you think your child is intentionally hiding, call out. Make it a game. Ask for clues. Keep your voice calm.

3. Check With Your Neighbors and Family

Once you’ve thoroughly checked your house, it’s time to start canvassing the neighborhood. Talk to your neighbors and see if they’ve seen your child or know of any places they may have gone.

The good thing about many neighborhoods is that people look out for each other’s kids, so you’ll likely have some help in your search. Don’t forget to ask even the children living nearby if they’ve seen your child; they may have information you didn’t even think to ask about.

4. Check Public Places

If you still haven’t found your child, it’s time to start checking local public places. This includes parks, playgrounds, libraries, schools, and community centers. Your child may have wandered off and tried to find a familiar place.

If all else fails, head to your local police station – they may have received calls or information about your child that can help you find them.

If your child goes missing, it’s important to stay calm and follow these steps to ensure you’re reunited as quickly and safely as possible. Each situation is different, but by following these steps, you’ll increase your chances of finding your child and keeping them safe and sound.

Do you have more questions about child-proofing your home or safety precautions in Salem Oregon? Talk to our staff at WFMC Health or become a new patient today!

This article was first published on WFMCHealth.org.