The Westmoreland County Sheriff’s Office proudly participates in Project Lifesaver, a vital program designed to safeguard individuals with cognitive disorders who are prone to wandering. Whether it's a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s, dementia, Down syndrome, autism, traumatic brain injuries, or cognitive impairments, Project Lifesaver provides peace of mind to caregivers and families.
How It Works
Participants in Project Lifesaver wear a personalized bracelet emitting a unique tracking signal. In the event that a loved one goes missing, caregivers immediately notify the Sheriff’s Office. Specially trained deputies equipped with mobile locator tracking systems respond promptly to the area, utilizing the individual's signal to pinpoint their location and ensure their safe return.
The Mission of Project Lifesaver
Founded in 1999 in Chesapeake, Virginia, Project Lifesaver is a 501(C)(3) community-based, public safety, non-profit organization. It was established to address the life-threatening behavior of wandering among individuals with cognitive disorders. Over the years, the program has grown into an internationally recognized initiative, dedicated to protecting and swiftly locating at-risk individuals.
The Power of Project Lifesaver
Project Lifesaver employs state-of-the-art locating technologies and innovative search and rescue methods. By strategically combining these tools with community policing courses, first responders are equipped to understand and effectively respond to the behaviors of individuals with cognitive conditions. As a result, search times have been reduced from potentially days to mere minutes, with an average recovery time of just 30 minutes—95% faster than standard operations.
Bringing Loved Ones Home
Project Lifesaver relies on proven radio technology and specially trained search and rescue teams. Enrolled individuals wear a small transmitter emitting a personalized frequency signal. When a participant goes missing, caregivers alert their local Project Lifesaver agency, enabling trained emergency teams to swiftly locate and safely bring the individual back home.
Contact Us
To enroll in our local Project Lifesaver program or for more information, please contact First Sergeant A. Smith at ansmith@westcoso.us. Together, we can protect our loved ones and ensure their safety and well-being.