CHELMSFORD, MA —The Chelmsford Police Department has announced that it has purchased several SafetyNet bracelets, which help to locate people with cognitive impairments who go missing.
The SafetyNet system is a tracking bracelet that is worn at all times—on the wrist or ankle —by people who have conditions like autism, dementia or Alzheimer's. The program and bracelet are being offered free to Chelmsford residents.
According to the CPD, it takes an average of 30 minutes to locate missing people with the help of SafetyNet.
The department said that since 2010, the system has assisted in 989 searches nationwide in which the user has been found safe.
"The SafetyNet system is an effective and reliable way for the Chelmsford Police Department to be more proactive about protecting potentially vulnerable members of our community," Chelmsford Police Chief James Spinney said.
Spinney continued: "When a community member goes missing, time is of the essence and this program and technology will enable us to locate missing individuals more quickly. We think this program has great potential to save lives."
According to the CPD, nine of its officers already have been trained to use the system, and more officers will be trained in the coming months.
When somebody using SafetyNet has gone missing, these first responders will use a vehicle fixed with an antenna to track the signal emitted from the bracelet, according to the CPD.
The system allows first responders to track the location of the missing person within a quarter of a mile.
After going to that spot, first responders often are able to continue their search using handheld tracking devices, the department said.
The CPD said that SafetyNet's radio frequency technology has been found to be more effective than GPS, especially in densely wooded areas, buildings, basements and shallow water.
Residents who wish to take part in the program should contact Officer Matthew Fernald at mfernald@chelmsfordma.gov or 978-256-2521, extension 301, or contact Officer Shawn Brady at sbrady@chelmsfordma.gov or 978-256-2521, extension 275.
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