Locator Systems Corporation, a manufacturer of state-of-the-art wireless technology, has developed a new tracking wristband that combines cellular, GPS and radio frequency technology to make it easier and faster for caregivers to locate loved ones.

“Project Lifesaver has changed the way that search and rescue missions are performed,” said Gene Saunders, CEO of Project Lifesaver and a retired police captain with 39 years of experience in law enforcement and public safety. “A traditional search without Project Lifesaver may involve teams of searchers and hundreds of man-hours. On average, a search for a person enrolled in Project Lifesaver ends within 30 minutes and costs law enforcement significantly less.”

The organization has more than 10,000 people enrolled in its program and has a 100 percent success rate finding Alzheimer’s patients, Autistic children and other people who wander. For eight years, Project Lifesaver has worked with local public safety organizations to find 1,500 people; helping to reduce search times from days to a matter of minutes.

With Project Lifesaver’s latest technology, public safety responders and caregivers can go to Project Lifesaver’s Web site (www.projectlifesaver.org), enter the client’s security information and see the current location of the client displayed on a map. In addition, the new technology will notify caregivers, by e-mail or text message, if the individual strays outside a given area.

Because the system leverages the radio frequency technology currently used by Project Lifesaver, the individual can be located even if they wander outside of cellular coverage areas or are hidden from view from GPS satellites.

“We are providing Project Lifesaver with the latest in cellular, GPS and location-based software,” said Jim McIntosh, CEO of Locator Systems. “Having this integrated with their existing services allows them to continue to be world leaders in providing a complete program for locating individuals who wander or become lost.”

In addition to providing tracking equipment, Project Lifesaver trains and certifies local law enforcement and public safety officials, as well as teaches them how to communicate with people with special needs to gain their trust and put them at ease.

“With more than five million people in the United States with Alzheimer’s disease, and this number continuing to grow, the protection of these individuals is paramount. Project Lifesaver has effectively and safely brought loved ones home time and time again. In addition, their system has given caregivers enormous peace of mind,” said Eric J. Hall, CEO of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America and a board member of Project Lifesaver.

How the Project Lifesaver Program Works

Clients who are enrolled in the Project Lifesaver program wear a transmitter, approximately the size of a large watch, which has a personalized radio frequency and cellular signal. When caregivers notify Project Lifesaver, the local Project Lifesaver agency (including police, sheriff or search and rescue teams) responds to the area and begins searching for the individual.

Funded completely by private and corporate donations and grants, Project Lifesaver has the endorsement of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, the National Sheriff’s Association, the International Society of Crime Prevention Practitioners, statewide sheriffs’ associations and the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners.

Source: Business Wire