Child Abuse Prevention and Safety Resources for EMS Professionals

The following resources are intended for Texas EMS professionals or others who are required by the Texas Family Code to report abuse. When in doubt, remember to let Child Abuse Hotline experts make determinations. Always be sure document information about a call.


Child Abuse Prevention

Reporting Child Abuse

If you suspect abuse, call Texas Child Protective Services at 800-252-5400. 

Recognizing signs of child abuse


Child Abuse Resources- Texas

Keep Children Safe Poster

Programs

  • Children’s Advocacy Centers of Texas supports children’s advocacy centers (CACs) in partnership with local communities and agencies investigating and prosecuting child abuse.
  • Help and Hope provides parents the necessary tools for improving their family's well-being.
  • Prevention and Early Intervention (PEI) Program  contracts with community-based programs and agencies to expand the available opportunities to maximize the potential of children and families in Texas communities. PEI manages programs that help prevent child abuse and other bad outcomes, helping communities identify and meet their needs.

Child Abuse Resources- National

Publications

  • Prevent Child Abuse America- produces many publications that are available to download or purchase directly from the HFA Program web site.

Programs

  • The American Academy of Pediatrics is an organization of 60,000 pediatricians committed to the attainment of optimal physical, mental, and social health and well-being for all infants, children, adolescents, and young adults.
  • The Children’s Bureau supports programs, research, and monitoring systems that prevent child abuse and neglect while ensuring that children who are victims receive treatment and care.
  • The National Children’s Advocacy Center models, promotes, and delivers excellence in child abuse response and prevention through service, education, and leadership.
  • Shaken Baby Alliance provides support for victim families and professionals, prevention of child abuse, and justice for the innocent victims.

Child Safety

Safety Programs- Texas

  • Safe Kids Austin consists of more than 30 community, civic, and state organizations. The Coalitions’ initiatives include classroom-based programs and educational events for families. There is a focus on promoting safety in vehicles, around water, and while walking and biking.
  • Safe Riders Traffic Safety Program provides helpful information about child passenger safety. Links to related local and national websites are available on their website.
  • Think Child Safety is an injury prevention program assisting in the reduction of injuries and death among children. The program teaches children safety skills and then provides constant re-enforcement by exposing children to visual reminders and opportunities to practice these skills.
  • The DSHS Audiovisual Library has various EMS materials/videos available on loan. Call 512-776-7260 for information.

Safety Programs- National