While the search for Camille Cleverley continues, some students may be at a loss on what they should do in a similar situation.

Officials provide instructions to students on what to do in the event of a missing person.

Contact law enforcement early and provide them with as much information as possible, including the date and location of last contact, the clothing and hairstyle the person was last seen in, known associates, habits and activities, said Provo City Officer Travis Bushman. .

"Don't get the perception that you have to wait 24 hours," Bushman said. "There's no time limit."

Once a disappearance has been reported, there are ways for people to help in the search effort.

Gina McNeil, manager of the Utah Missing Persons Clearing House, suggests using flyers and detailed photographs of the missing person.

Damon Talbot, operation manager of Destiny Search, a search organization based out of Salt Lake City, suggests The Laura Recovery Center for Missing Children Web site as a good source for tips on what to do if a person goes missing. The Web site also suggests where to post flyers and what to include on the flyers, Talbot said.

In the Cleverley case, people can help by participating in search parties.

Destiny Search is currently conducting searches in Provo Canyon. Another search will take place today from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Volunteers meet at Canyon View Park in Provo and are welcome at any time.

While details about the missing person and search efforts can help after a report is made, measures to prevent disappearance and accident are encouraged.

Bushman said people should inform others of their whereabouts, keep a cell phone with them and stay in pairs in well-lit areas.

"There is solid safety in numbers, even for college students," McNeil said.

Info box: In case of a missing person

- Contact law enforcement as soon as possible

- Contact friends and family for information and to help in search effort

- Be prepared to answer questions: date and location of last contact, clothing and hairstyle the person was last seen in, known associates, habits and activities

- Make flyers with recent, detailed photographs, but without personal addresses or phone numbers



Copyright Brigham Young University 6 Sep 2007