CFSA takes reports of child abuse and neglect 24 hours a day at 202-671-SAFE (202-671-7233). This hotline is the gateway to help and child welfare services for children up to age 18 anywhere in the District of Columbia. The community has a vital role to play in child protection. Friends, neighbors, teachers, doctors, and other community members should call the hotline whenever they think or know a child is experiencing abuse or neglect.

How to Recognize Child Abuse and Neglect
"Child abuse and neglect is the intentional, physical or mental injury, sexual abuse, negligent treatment, or maltreatment of any child under the age of eighteen by a person who is responsible for the child's welfare under circumstances which indicate the child's health or welfare is harmed or threatened." (DC Code 16-2301(9)(23))

There are many indicators of child abuse. Learn how to recognize the warning signs of:
Physical Abuse
Emotional Abuse
Sexual Abuse
Neglect
Domestic Violence

How to Respond to an Abused Child
If you suspect a child has been abused or neglected, use the following guidelines to respond.
Remain calm. A child may retract information or stop talking if he/she senses strong reaction.
Believe the child. Children rarely make up stories about abuse.
Listen without passing judgment. Most children know their abusers and often have conflicted feelings.
Tell the child you are glad that he/she told someone.
Assure the child that abuse is not his/her fault.
Do what you can to make certain that the child is safe from further abuse.
Do not investigate a case yourself. Call the police or the Child and Family Services Agency hotline at (202) 671-SAFE (7233) to make a report.

How to Report Child Abuse
If child abuse or neglect is suspected, immediately call the CFSA reporting hotline at (202) 671-SAFE (671-7233). To make a report, you will need to provide the following information:
Name, age, sex, and address of the child who is the subject of the report, any siblings, and the parent, guardian, or caregiver.

Nature and extent of the abuse or neglect, as you know it (and any previous abuse or neglect)

Any additional information that may help establish the cause and identity of persons responsible

Your name, occupation, contact information, and a statement of any actions taken concerning the child

Call the CFSA hotline immediately-even if all the information is not available to you. If requested, follow up with a written report to the Child and Family Services Agency.