WAYNE — When children are missing law enforcement officials are often delayed in the process of finding them because collecting fingerprints can be time consuming. Many parents already have child safety kits that include their children’s fingerprints in case an unfortunate emergency occurs. But statements released by the FBI show 80% of those fingerprints are not usable because they aren’t professionally taken. 

The Keeping Kids Safe Project is coming to metro-Detroit in order to prevent children in the region from harm. It will provide parents with high quality digital fingerprints, and photos of their children. It’s part of the Safety in Prints (S.I.P) Kids  national program. 

“Police officials say time is crucial in the recovery of missing children. One major problem that costs precious time is gathering current photographs, fingerprints, and personal information to assist law enforcement agencies,” said National Director of S.I.P Kids, Lytishya Borglum. 

The 4th annual free child safety fair will be held inside the showroom at the Jack Demmer Ford Auto Dealership on Friday, Mar. 23 from 1-5:30 p.m. and Saturday Mar. 24 from 9:30 a.m.- 2 p.m. Jack Demmer Ford is located at 37300 Michigan Avenue, Wayne, Michigan 48184.

After obtaining the children’s information, photographs and fingerprints, S.I.P is then able to print out records and send them home with parents to keep. All fingerprinting is digital, and the process only takes about one minute. The scanners are produced by the same company that makes scanners for the White House. S.I.P. travels weekly around the country to keep children safe. 

All records are sent directly home with parents, and S.I.P  does not store the information in a database. Not even the children’s names are taken. Law enforcement officials will be present  to help educate children and their families on how to stay clear of dangerous situations.  “As parents we have a common passion for helping others keep their children safe,”  Borglum said. 

In the event that an emergency does arise, parents can immediately hand over these records to police and save time in the beginning of an investigation when a child is reported missing or abducted. 

It’s important for parents to note that scars from cuts or burns can alter fingerprints. Children as young as a few weeks old can get their fingerprints taken. Seniors who are concerned about their safety can also receive the free services. For more information call S.I.P at 319-268-411 or visit www.KeepingkidsSafeProject.com.