March 8, 2010 3:53 PM
Loudoun County: Project Lifesaver for wanderers
The Loudoun County Sheriff's Office announced the formation of an electronic based tracking system for people with medical conditions such as Alzheimer's, Autism, or other conditions, that have a tendency to wander from home and become lost.The program, called Project Lifesaver, allows deputies certified as Electronic Search Specialists to fit clients with a wristband transmitter that emits an automatic tracking signal. If the client becomes lost the specially trained deputies will use a mobile antenna and hand-held directional device to help locate the client.
Project Lifesaver is funded through several local, state and federal grants. Since the program began in 1999 Project Lifesaver agencies have rescued over 2,050 cognitively challenged individuals successfully with no serious injuries or deaths reported.
If you have a family member or loved one who is eligible for Project Lifesaver, you are asked to contact 2nd Lt. Jeff Mees, Loudoun County Sheriff's Office Coordinator for Project Lifesaver, at 703-777-0611 or Assistant Coordinator Sgt. Jenny McGinn at 703-777-0607.
Posted in Loudoun County, Safety | Permalink
Comments
Barbara,
We did this here in Cherokee County Georgia for my son with autism. The great thing was, we all go to know our local police officers and they got to know my son. They had a game-plan in place in case he ever went missing. It was so detailed they even had one if he went missing from his school. The officers really started to understand my son, and I'll tell you, that was peace of mind for us! The only glitch was that my son does a lot of kicking and flapping due to his autism, and he kept breaking the transmitter. It ended up being broken more than it was not. However, I understand that they have redesigned the bracelets (he wore his on his ankle) and they are supposed to be more sturdy. Also, it was provided at no cost to us!! I highly recommend the program!
Sara
Posted by: Sara | March 8, 2010 7:51 PM
