This May, Naperville Police are using our Safer Naper program to highlight two proactive safety programs that help our first responders better meet the needs of individuals with special needs or challenges in Naperville: Caring Hands and Fastrack.
Caring Hands
When seconds count in an emergency, it is critical that first responders have as much information as possible when responding to an incident. The Caring Hands program allows residents to voluntarily provide Naperville’s Police and Fire Departments with critical information about themselves or loved ones with developmental, cognitive, mental, medical and/or physical disabilities who may require special assistance during an emergency or non-emergency situation.
Information provided could include methods of communication, sensory and medical issues as well as approach and de-escalation techniques. Residents with any kind of special physical, behavioral and/or psychological conditions are encouraged to participate in this voluntary program. Some of these conditions might include: Alzheimer’s, dementia, autism, mental health or behavioral disorders, hearing impairment or a serious medical condition.
Fastrack
Fastrack is a Naperville Police Department program that allows us to quickly locate missing persons with an inability to communicate or other challenges. The program utilizes “tried and true” radio technology with specially-trained response team members to locate missing persons.
Fastrack clients wear a personalized wristband that emits a continual silent radio tracking signal. When caregivers notify the Naperville Police Department that the client is missing, a search and rescue team responds and begins tracking the client with a mobile tracking system. When time is so critical, participation in this program can reduce search times from hours and days to minutes. Clients on the program range from young children who have autism to older adults with Alzheimer’s or dementia.
For more information about these programs, visit the City of Naperville’s website at www.naperville.il.us/asafernaper.
Until Next Month… Stay Aware and Stay Safe.