Project Lifesaver

Project Lifesaver’s mission is to use state-of-the-art technology in assisting those who care for victims of Alzheimer’s and other Related Mental Dysfunctional Disorders (ARMD) and victims who become lost.  These victims include the elderly and even the youngest who are afflicted with Down’s Syndrome and Autism. 

Victims of ARMS tend to wander from their homes.  Project Lifesaver places personalized radio transmitters on persons identified with ARMS.   These transmitters assist caregivers and local emergency personnel in located those who cannot help themselves.

Project Lifesaver is an active system that relies on state-of -the-art technology and a specially trained search and rescue team.  People who are part of the Project Lifesaver program wear a personalized wristband that emits a tracking signal.  When caregivers notify the sheriff’s office that the person is missing, a search team responds to the wanderer’s area and start searching with the mobile locator tracking system.  Search times have been reduced from hours and days to minutes.  Recovery times average less than 30 minutes.

The Project Lifesaver wristband is a passive ID wristband.  It is a one-ounce battery operated radio wrist transmitter emitting an automatic tracking signal every second, 24 hours a day.  The signal can be tracked from the ground or in the air over several miles.  As each wristband has a unique radio frequency, the Project Lifesaver search team can positively locate and identify a person that has wandered away from home or a care facility using a specially designed radio receiver.

Deputies who have gone through Project Lifesaver training will make monthly visits to the homes of individuals wearing the wristbands to check on the individual’s welfare and on the functioning of the equipment.

Project Lifesaver provides peace of mind to caregivers, families and communities and a sure way to turn potential tragedies into safe and happy homecomings.

Initial funding for Project Lifesaver was provided by a $6,000 grant from Project Lifesaver International and Area Office on Aging.   

Continued Funding for Project Lifesaver is a result of private donations and grants.