OSHKOSH, Wis. — If you have a loved one who is at risk of wandering, such as those living with dementia, autism or down syndrome, the Oshkosh Police Department is using a special device that can bring them home safely. It's called Project Lifesaver.
The person whose at risk is assigned their own radio frequency that transmits from a bracelet they wear. If they go missing, officers place an antenna on their squad car and drive from the person's last known location until they pick-up the signal. Once they pinpoint the area, they start walking with a hand-held device, and through a series of beeps, it leads them directly to the missing person.
"I can't even imagine being the loved one, and the stress and worry that you're under when your loved one has wandered. So being able to tell them within 30 minutes, 'We've located your loved one. They're fine. They're safe. They're on their way back to you,'" said Officer Kate Mann.
Oshkosh police officers have located one missing person so far using the system.
If you'd like to learn more about Project Lifesaver or sign-up for the program, call Officer Kate Mann at (920) 236-5742 or email kmann@ci.oshkosh.wi.us
