Watervliet PD begins project to help those with wandering cognitive conditions

WATERVLIET, N.Y. — The Watervliet Police Department launched Project LifeSaver, announced the department in a recent press release.

The program is a community initiative aimed at safeguarding residents who are prone to wandering due to cognitive conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, autism and other related disorders.

Project Lifesaver is a nationally recognized program that uses state-of-the-art tracking technology to quickly and safely locate individuals who may go missing, officials said. The initiative reflects the Watervliet Police Department’s ongoing commitment to serving and protecting all members of the community.

Watervliet Police Department said it will equip individuals with a lightweight, wristwatch-sized transmitter that emits a unique FM radio frequency. In the event a participant goes missing, trained officers from the Watervliet Police Department can swiftly deploy specialized tracking equipment to locate and ensure their safe return, according to the release.

The Watervliet Police Department has designated specific officers as Project Lifesaver Coordinators and Electronic Search Specialists, ensuring that all participants receive consistent monitoring and support. According to the release, officers undergo extensive training, including certification and recertification through Project Lifesaver International and participate in regular mock search exercises to maintain proficiency.

Participants will receive regular maintenance visits to ensure the equipment functions correctly, including battery replacements and transmitter checks, officials said. Families and caregivers are also educated on the program’s procedures and the importance of prompt reporting in case of an emergency.

“Ensuring the safety of all our residents is our top priority,” said Police Chief William M. Rice in the release. “Project LifeSaver provides peace of mind to families and caregivers, knowing that their loved ones have an added layer of protection.”

According to the release, key features of the program include:

• Personalized Tracking: Each participant’s transmitter emits a distinct frequency, allowing for efficient and accurate location by law enforcement.

• Confidential Information Storage: Participant details are securely stored, ensuring quick access during emergencies while maintaining privacy.

• Rapid Response: Upon notification of a missing person, the Watervliet Police Department’s trained Search and Rescue Team will immediately initiate search procedures using advanced directional receivers.

Requirements to enroll:

• Have a cognitive condition such as Alzheimer’s disease, autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome or a traumatic brain injury, diagnosed by a certified physician.

• Be prone to wandering or present significant concern for wandering.

• Have a caregiver who provides 24/7 supervision.

Enrolling in Project LifeSaver:

Eligibility: Residents of Watervliet with a history or significant risk of wandering due to cognitive conditions are eligible.

Contact: Caregivers can reach out to the Watervliet Police Department to express interest in the program.

Assessment: A certified officer will schedule a meeting with the caregiver and potential participant to discuss the program’s details and assess suitability.

Enrollment: Upon acceptance, the participant will be fitted with the transmitter, and caregivers will receive training on its use and maintenance.

The Watervliet Police Department remains dedicated to fostering a safe and inclusive community, the release said. For more information, residents can visit their website to enroll a loved one in Project LifeSaver or contact the Watervliet Police Department:

Website: watervlietpolice.com  Email: [email protected] Phone: (518) 270-3833 Address: #2-15th Street, Watervliet, NY 12189

The Watervliet Police Department remains committed to enhancing community safety and supporting families in need, the release said.. Project LifeSaver is a testament to this dedication, offering a proactive solution to protect some of our most vulnerable residents.