What Is the Florida Purple Alert? (Explained Simply)

What Is a Purple Alert?

The Florida Purple Alert is one of several special alerts the state uses to tell people when someone is missing and needs help being found.

Think of it like a giant "Have you seen this person?" message sent to the public.

When Did It Start and Who Is It For?

• The state of Florida started the Purple Alert in 2022.
• It helps find missing adults who have mental or thinking disabilities.
• These disabilities are not Alzheimer’s, dementia, or problems caused by using drugs or alcohol.

So, if an adult is missing and has a different kind of mental or cognitive disability, this alert can help.

When Is a Purple Alert Used?

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) says a Purple Alert is used when the missing person’s disappearance:

• "poses a credible threat of immediate danger or serious bodily harm"

In kid words: the person could be in real trouble right now and might get hurt.

How Long Does the Alert Stay Active?

• Usually, the alert stays on until the missing person is found.
• If the person was last seen in a known vehicle, the Department of Transportation puts the info on road signs.
• Those road signs stay on for a maximum of six hours.

Where Does the Alert Go?

• The alert covers the whole state of Florida.
• It focuses most on the area where the person first went missing.

Who Decides to Use a Purple Alert?

• Local police or law enforcement decide if the missing person fits the rules for a Purple Alert.
• Families or caregivers should still report the disappearance if they think a Purple Alert is needed.

Important: If you care for someone missing and think a Purple Alert fits, tell the police right away!

What Should You Do If You See the Missing Person?

If you are out and about and think you see the missing person:

1. Call 911, or
2. Dial *FHP (that’s 347 on your phone)

Tell them what you saw and where.

How Can You Get Purple Alerts?

You can sign up to receive these alerts on your phone or email.

• Click here to sign up: Everbridge Sign-Up Link

Important Point: Signing up helps more people keep an eye out, which can save lives!

Summary

The Florida Purple Alert started in 2022 to help find missing adults with certain mental or cognitive disabilities (not Alzheimer’s, dementia, or substance abuse). It is used when the person may be in immediate danger. The alert goes statewide, usually lasts until the person is found, and road signs show it for up to six hours if a vehicle is involved. Local police decide if it is used, but families should report concerns. If you see the person, call 911 or *FHP (347). You can sign up to get alerts too.

FAQ

1. What is a Purple Alert in Florida?
It is a public alert to help find missing adults with mental or cognitive disabilities that are not Alzheimer’s, dementia, or from substance abuse, when they may be in immediate danger.

2. Who decides if a Purple Alert is issued?
Local law enforcement decides if the missing person meets the criteria, but families or caregivers should report it if they believe it is needed.

3. How long does a Purple Alert last?
It usually stays active until the person is found. If a vehicle is known, road signs show it for up to six hours.

4. What do I do if I think I see the missing person?
Call 911 or dial *FHP (347) to report it.

5. How can I get Purple Alerts on my phone?
You can sign up using this link: Everbridge Sign-Up