RCMP is working to eliminate the false belief that you must wait 24 hours to report a missing person.  

That is simply not true.

Corporal Deanna Fontaine says, “You do not have to wait to make a call to report a person missing. There is a bit of a myth that you have to wait 24 hours, and that is not the case at all. You can report a missing person from anywhere, you do not have to wait till you get home. You can call and report a person missing so that we can initiate our investigation as soon as possible in order to try and locate that missing person.” 

It is hoped that no one has to deal with the trauma of reporting a person missing, but if they do it is important to know the right steps, according to the RCMP. 

Along with not waiting to call the police and being able to make a report from anywhere, it is important to provide as much detail as possible to the police. The investigation can be helped by providing descriptions and the activities of the missing individual. Photos are imperative to an investigation. 

Fontaine says, “Please let the police assess the context of that missing person. Sometimes, if it’s a vulnerable person or a young person missing for five minutes, that is enough for the police to initiate an investigation.” 

It is also important for people to take preventative measures by sharing travel plans and itineraries including destination, mode of transportation, and contact information to a loved one, friend, or neighbour. It is a safety practice that will help Alberta RCMP to keep citizens safe.  

To report a missing person, call 911, or visit or call your local police station without delay.  

More information can be found at www.canadamissing.ca