Local authorities have a new tool to help keep vulnerable people safe in the community.
Local authorities have a new tool to help keep vulnerable people safe in the community.
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On Wednesday, Chatham-Kent Victim Services and Chatham-Kent police launched Project Lifesaver, a proactive response for those at risk of wandering, including individuals with Alzheimer’s, dementia, autism, and other cognitive conditions.
The program uses a personalized wristband that emits a unique tracking signal. If a participant goes missing, trained officers use advanced tracking equipment to find them. This reduces search times and improves rescue outcomes.
“The intent is to quickly locate vulnerable missing people, specifically people with cognitive injuries and impairments,” Insp. Michael Pearce said.
“In any search and rescue, the goal is to find someone as quickly as possible, in the best condition as possible.”
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He said the wristband’s signal can be picked up within three kilometers on the ground, or eight to 10 kilometers from the air.
The system runs 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Missing person searches can use a lot of police time and resources, Pearce said.
“What could be a multi-day search, we can now usually solve. . . inside of 30 minutes,” he said, noting the system has been used successfully in other jurisdictions.
To ensure accessibility, the first 20 approved applicants will receive free bracelets. Fundraising will ensure cost isn’t a barrier.
Victim services will manage enrollment and ongoing support for participants, ensuring families and caregivers have the necessary resources and information.
Executive director Kate do Forno said the initiative safeguards people at risk and strengthens the community’s support network.
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“We’re committed to keeping this program as affordable as possible,” she added.
“We want to make sure that family members are able to come home safely to their loved ones. . . (and) their community. . . The more preventative work that we can do, the safer our community is.”
Currently, there are nine officers trained, with the goal of having two trained and certified officers in each platoon. The remaining members of the critical incident response team will be trained next month.
“This initiative is a vital step forward in protecting individuals with Alzheimer’s and dementia,” Brandon Ball, Alzheimer Society Chatham-Kent chief executive, said in a release.
“The peace of mind that comes with knowing love ones can be quickly located if they wander is invaluable to families and caregivers.”
For more information, visit ckvictimservices.com/programs/project-lifesaver.
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