Elkland Search and Rescue initiative saves time

September 25, 2012

Photo by Gian DeLoia – Elkland Search and Rescue Vice President Terry Detsch stands next to one of many rescue vehicles that assist in the location of individuals who suffer from Alzheimer's disease and autism.

ST. MARYS – A rise in the occurrence of cognitive disorders like Alzheimer's disease, dementia and autism has sparked the Elkland Search and Rescue [ESR] team to kick off an initiative designed to better locate individuals who have a tendency to wander.
ESR is taking a proactive stance by asking family members of those affected to also be proactive by filling out a form, "Wanderers Information Sheet," before an incident occurs to act as a tool to help locate the person.
A prepared form can reportedly save the team 30-45 vital minutes in an emergency situation. Each form lists a person's detailed specific information for first responders.