(For initial requests, fill out activation criteria in full. For cancellation requests, fill out cancellation section in full.)
Silver Alert FAQ
What is the reason for implementing the Silver Alert Plan?
Maine is committed to putting in place tools and technologies to ensure the safety and protection of missing endangered persons. The Silver Alert is a standardized and coordinated law enforcement and state agency response to quickly share information with the public to improve the chances of a safe recovery.
How does the Silver Alert get activated?
Once the Augusta RCC receives the completed Silver Alert Request Form from a Law Enforcement Agency, they will notify the DPS PIO and send out a press release on behalf of the requesting LE Agency. The ARCC will also email MDOT, MTA, Scientific Games, and Lottery for them to put on their signboards or screens if applicable.
Do you use the Emergency Alert System (EAS), as you do with AMBER Alerts?
No, the EAS is restricted to child abductions and is not used for other cases involving missing children. However, just like Missing Children Alerts, television, and radio stations will be notified, and the information can be broadcast to the viewing or listening public.
Can we use a DMV photo?
Yes, you can, as long as it is recent. Please have an appropriate photo prepared to share with ARCC when a request is made, as this is extremely important as part of the press release to the general public.
Do we contact ARCC if we have a missing endangered person that we believe is in another state?
No, we can only activate Silver Alerts for Maine only. You would need to contact the LE agency that covers where you believe the endangered missing person is to make that request.
What is an exhaustive search?
If the missing endangered person is on foot, a K9 track would be appropriate. If they are in a vehicle, please request the Silver Alert, as there is no way of doing an exhaustive search in that scenario. The goal is to utilize all available tools to locate the missing endangered person before activation so we do not saturate the system.