Free DNA kit & fingerprinting help parents prepare for the worst

by Kelli Cheatham (kcheatham@wsbt.com)

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An event at Tyler Automotive in Niles on Saturday, March 8, 2008, offered a free fingerprint profile, picture and DNA kit for children. (WSBT photo)

By WSBT News1

Story Created: Mar 8, 2008 at 2:11 PM EST

Story Updated: Mar 15, 2008 at 5:45 PM EST

NILES — It's frightening for any parent to imagine. Every 40 seconds, a child in the United States is reported missing. But being prepared can make all the difference in getting those kids get home safely.

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Hundreds of parents took their kids to Tyler Automotive in Niles Saturday "just in case."

"It's terrifying to think that it could be me," said Annemieke Kosten. "But you hope for the best and make sure you're prepared just in case."

Each child got a free fingerprint profile, a picture and a DNA kit. Kids of all ages showed up. One baby was just 12 days old. His grandma said she knows how important it is to get him tested.

"It just scares me," she said. "Just scares me that [it] happens in the world."

Police say you should think about the 'what-ifs,' and have everything ready for them, just in case.

"You're prepared for a house fire, you have smoke detectors," said Niles Police officer Kevin Kosten. "You're prepared for an accident, you have car insurance. This is kind of insurance again, for our kids. And it's our duty as parents to protect them."

Because the next child who disappears could be your own.

Police also say time is crucial in missing persons cases. You should call them immediately if your child ever disappears.

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