News Summary
York County has introduced Project Lifesaver, a new initiative designed to assist families caring for loved ones with cognitive impairments. This program utilizes specialized tracking bracelets that enable quick location of individuals who may wander off. With a search time reduced from nine hours to just 30 minutes, families now have an effective tool for ensuring the safety of their loved ones. The initiative, currently offered at no cost, depends on community donations to sustain its operations, aiming to expand its reach and increase awareness among families in need.
York County Takes Big Step to Help Families with Project Lifesaver
In the heart of York County, a new initiative has been launched to provide a sense of peace for families caring for loved ones with cognitive impairments. Dubbed Project Lifesaver, this program aims to quickly locate individuals who may wander off from their caregivers, ensuring they return home safely.
How Does It Work?
Project Lifesaver utilizes clever technology in the form of tracking bracelets. These special devices emit unique radio frequencies, making it possible for law enforcement to find those who go missing within a remarkably short time frame. Instead of waiting an average of nine hours, families can expect a search to be concluded in just 30 minutes thanks to this innovative approach.
Currently, the initiative is available at no cost, but it relies heavily on the generosity of the local community for donations. Each bracelet kit is priced at $347, so every little bit helps in keeping this lifesaving service active and effective.
Who Can Benefit?
Project Lifesaver is designed especially for residents taking care of individuals with various cognitive conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, autism, Down syndrome, and more. Families can register their loved ones through the York County Sheriff’s Department website or by reaching out directly to law enforcement officers.
Once enrolled, eligible individuals will receive a tracking device that looks a lot like a wristwatch. This nifty gadget emits a signal every single second and works seamlessly around the clock — no cell phone service is required, making it incredibly reliable in emergencies.
Program Growth and Community Involvement
Currently, Project Lifesaver has ten individuals signed up, with the sheriff’s office eager to expand enrollment as awareness grows. Community Engagement Sergeant Johnathan Gilbert has highlighted the goal of spreading the program further by collaborating with additional agencies, thereby covering larger areas more efficiently.
As part of the enrollment process, a deputy will visit the homes of participants to ensure the device fits comfortably. Families can choose from various colors and placements for the bracelet, ensuring it meets their loved one’s needs.
What to Do If a Participant Goes Missing
In the unfortunate event that someone does go missing, families are instructed to call 911 immediately and inform the dispatcher that the individual is part of Project Lifesaver. Trained deputies will respond promptly, bringing the necessary tracking devices along to locate the missing person. With an impressive radius coverage of one mile, these devices offer significant support in urgent scenarios.
Maintenance Matters
To ensure the devices remain functional, deputies regularly check them bi-monthly, changing batteries and conducting maintenance as needed. Additionally, families are provided with a battery tester and a daily log to monitor the device’s performance, helping maintain peace of mind in everyday life.
In York County, Project Lifesaver stands as a beacon of hope for families facing the difficult challenges of caring for loved ones with cognitive impairments. It’s a powerful reminder of the community’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all its residents.
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Additional Resources
- WCNC
- Wikipedia: Alzheimer’s Disease
- WSAV
- Google Search: Project Lifesaver
- York Dispatch
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Autism
- WJHL
- Google News: Tracking Devices
