Oct 10, 2025 By Paul Paterra 2 min read

Canonsburg is taking a step toward protecting children with a new child identification program.

“It has all of their information, everything personal,” explained Mayor Dave Rhome. “It’s kept confidentially with the parents, grandparents, wherever the person is who is in charge of that child. When the police department, fire department and medics respond, this information will be readily available instead of them trying to reinvent everything. It will already be there.”

Rhome said the packets also may be used for those with dementia.

“The first 24 hours has proven that it’s very important to have that information sooner than later,” he said. “The results of finding the individual have been a tremendous success.”

Along with the personal information that can be shared on the form – including friends’ names – there is a space to attach a recent photograph. There’s also room for DNA samples, fingerprints, dental information and any other pertinent medical information.

“If we do find them, we can hand (that information) right to the medics,” Rhome said.

The information on the form also recommends parents discuss safety with their child often and that the child knows his or her full name, address and phone number.

Safety packets can be picked up at the mayor’s office, police department and borough building.

“It’s just a great program, and we’re happy to be a part of it,” Rhome said.