OLYMPIA -- The state Department of Social and Health Services is calling on Washington citizens to keep their eyes and ears alert to signs of mistreatment to vulnerable adults.

July is "Adult Abuse Prevention Month," and the DSHS Aging and Disability Services Administration is offering free abuse prevention kits that provides information on how to recognize abuse, how to make a report of abuse and what anyone can do protect vulnerable adults from abuse, abandonment, neglect, financial exploitation or self-neglect.

To get a kit, call 1-800-422-3263. The kit can be downloaded at  www.adsa.dshs.wa.gov/aps.

In 2008, the DSHS Adult Protective Services received 14,288 reports of alleged mistreatment of adults who are vulnerable because of their age or disability. However, it is estimated that only 1 in 5 cases of abuse of a vulnerable adult are reported to authorities.

"We depend on the eyes and ears of friends, neighbors, families and others to let us know if they believe a vulnerable adult is being harmed," said Kathy Leitch, assistant secretary for the ADSA. "When abuse is suspected, DSHS has 94 APS staff who investigate the allegations of mistreatment to vulnerable adults living in their own homes."

How to report abuse

Report suspected abuse, abandonment, neglect, financial exploitation or self neglect of a vulnerable adult by calling the statewide hotline number at 1-866-EndHarm (1-866-363-4276). It is important for callers to provide as much detailed information as possible when making a report. APS will determine if an investigation is needed.

If you suspect a vulnerable adult is facing imminent harm because of criminal activity, contact local law enforcement immediately by dialing 911.

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DSHS does not discriminate and provides equal access to its programs and services for all persons without regard to race, color, gender, religion, creed, marital status, national origin, sexual orientation, age, veteran's status or the presence of any physical, sensory or mental disability.