Which statement is true about Silver Alert activation?

• A. Activation must be approved by supervisor
• B. Activation is automatic after 6 hours
• C. Activation is optional
• D. Activation requires governor approval

Answer: (A)

Activating a Silver Alert is a controlled action that requires supervisor approval. This ensures the missing person meets program criteria, the case has been reviewed for risk, and the alert will be coordinated with other agencies and jurisdictions before public dissemination. Because it involves public notification and cross-agency effort, it isn’t automatic after a set number of hours; a documented decision under supervision is needed to align with policy. It also isn’t optional—when criteria are met, activation is the intended course under established procedures. Governor approval isn’t typically required, as Silver Alerts are usually managed at the local or state agency level without needing executive authorization.