Page 20 - Giv'er Miramichi Magazine - Harvest Giver 2024

MIRAMICHI GROUND SEARCH AND RESCUE

Wondering about Wandering

Project LifeSaver Launches September 16
By Paulette Arsenault

Does your loved one wander or have a tendency to Miramichi Ground Search & Rescue members are
bolt from the effects of Alzheimer's Disease, Autism, already trained in traditional search and rescue
Down Syndrome, Traumatic Brain Injury or other techniques, incorporate their training skills with the
cognitive challenges? All these conditions can push a Project LifeSaver radio frequency tracking equipment
person to wander and wandering and bolting is a reality to quickly locate a missing person.
that caregivers must face. MGSAR responders search using directional radio
A missing person with a cognitive impairment, frequency receivers. Project LifeSaver requires a
represents a critical emergency. They may be unaware minimum of two searchers and recovery has been an
of their situation, may not call out for help and may not average of under 30 minutes.
respond to others who call out to them. This proven technology has the capability of
penetrating through obstacles such as concrete walls and
Project Lifesaver’s technology can help: thick forest to locate the battery powered, water resistant
• Decrease the chances of fatalities and injuries to a radio frequency transmitters emitting a signal that is
loved one. tracked on the ground over several kilometers.
• Significantly reduce the time needed to search for a
missing wandering person. Where is Project LifeSaver available?
• Provide families with a peace of mind. Volunteers from Miramichi Ground Search and
This program is available to individuals who live Rescue have undergone specialized training to be able
with a cognitive challenge who may wander and are to respond in the event that a Project LifeSaver client
continually under care and supervision by a responsible wanders or bolts from care in the greater Miramichi
family member or caregiver. area.

How can you help with Project Lifesaver?
There are many opportunities to volunteer with
Project LifeSaver. You may:
• Be a monthly maintenance volunteer battery changer.
• Share this information with others.
• Contact: infoprojectlifesaver@mgsar.ca

Unknown to most people, MGSAR is activated and
deactivated only by law enforcement authorities.
Miramichi Ground Search
With Project Lifesaver, a transmitter bracelet is worn by an
individual who is at a higher risk of wandering and becoming lost. and Rescue membership is
composed exclusively of
volunteers, women and men of
Clients who are a part of the Project LifeSaver all ages. MGSAR is always
program wear a one-ounce battery operated radio looking for new recruits, if you
frequency transmitter that emits a unique signal every are interested, please contact us
second, 24 hours a day. The battery provides a at join@mgsar.ca.
continuous signal for up to 45 days; however, it must be Help us save lives.
changed every 30 days. Should a loved one go missing,
caregivers are instructed to immediately call 911.

20 www.GiverMiramichi.com Harvest 2024