Reports of missing children rose 47 percent since the introduction of the Register, however much of the increase may be due to improvements in reporting and increased sensitivity and awareness of child safety issues. While large numbers of cases were reported, the majority were also cancelled within a relatively short period of time. Most of the missing children cases involved older females. While cases involving stranger abduction have typically generated the most publicity and concern, these cases are statistically very rare. Almost nine out of every ten cases of children reported missing were classified as runaways. Although the majority of these runaways return home voluntarily and not as a result of law enforcement investigation, both the causes and consequences of running away suggest that these youths are particularly at risk. 10 tables, 7 figures, appendix.