What Is a Wisconsin Silver Alert?
A Wisconsin Silver Alert is an emergency notification, requested by law enforcement, sent state-wide during an investigation for a mission person who fits a specific criteria.

  • The alert includes descriptive information about the person and runs through the Wisconsin Crime Alert Network by email or text.
  • Silver Alerts are disseminated in conjunction with the Wisconsin Broadcaster’s Association, the Outdoor Advertising Association of Wisconsin, and the Wisconsin Department of Revenue.
  • Channels include television, radio, digital billboards, and lottery display terminals.
  • Silver Alerts do not utilize the Emergency Alert or Wireless Emergency Systems

Who is eligible for a Silver Alert?

A Silver Alert may be issued for any missing person who is:

  • Over age 60
  • Believed to have Alzheimer’s, dementia
  • Believed to have a permanent cognitive impairment that poses a threat to the individual’s health and safety

What criteria have to be met to issue a Silver Alert?

The following criteria have to be met in order for a Silver Alert to be issued:

  • There must be a reasonable belief that the missing person’s disappearance is due to the individual’s impaired cognitive condition.
  • The Silver Alert request is made within 72 hours of the individual’s disappearance.
  • There is sufficient information available to disseminate that could assist in locating the missing person.

Who receives Silver Alerts?

Anyone can receive Silver Alerts at no cost. Alerts can be sent to you either by fax, e-mail or text message. To register, visit www.wisconsincrimealert.gov.

For more information or to become an Alzheimer’s advocate, contact us:
Madison office: (608) 232-3400
Toll-free: (888) 308-6251

What can I do?

Your first step when a loved one is missing is to notify your local police department. Additionally, you can contact:

Wisconsin Department of Justice Silver Alert

How can I plan for a potential Silver Alert?

  • Maintain a recent, clear picture of the person in an electronic format.
  • Keep a recent picture of the car the person may be driving.
  • Note any markings on the car that could make it easier to identify (dents, vanity plates, bumper stickers).

Additional help in finding a missing senior with dementia:

  • Consider including your name on a loved one’s bank and cell phone accounts. By doing so, you can authorize law enforcement to locate and track your loved one through the wireless carrier or by monitoring bank transactions.
  • Install an app on your computer or cell phone that allows you to track a loved one’s location.
  • Purchase a personal GPS unit that can be carried or worn.
SEE CURRENT SILVER ALERTS
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