Wireless Program For Finding Missing People

Agencies to demonstrate wireless program for finding missing, vulnerable people

Pierce County Sheriff Paul Pastor and community partners invite the news media and interested citizens to a news conference demonstrating “Project LOCATE,” a system that finds vulnerable adults and children who wander and become lost.

The system, known as EmFinders, utilizes a device about the size of a wristwatch. If a loved one wanders off, caregivers first notify 911 and then call EmFinders, which activates the device. That prompts the device to call 911, enabling emergency dispatchers to quickly locate and return the missing person. The E911 cellular triangulation technology, unlike GPS, can locate inside buildings, under canopies and in wooded areas.  

The news conference will be held at 10 a.m. on Jan. 12 at the Pierce County Emergency Operations Center, 2501 S. 35th St., Suite D, Tacoma (the Pierce County Annex West). Following the brief announcement, organizers will conduct a demonstration in which a device will be activated in the field and officers will be directed to its location. Media can ride along.

Project LOCATE is administered through PAVE, a statewide nonprofit dedicated to supporting families with loved ones who have disabilities. Information will be provided about how to purchase the wireless bracelet and how to apply for scholarships that are available to eligible Pierce County families.  

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Sgt. Trent Stephens, Sheriff's Department Search and Rescue supervisor
253-377-3217
tstephe@co.pierce.wa.us

Tracy Kahlo, PAVE Executive Director
253-565-2266
tkahlo@wapave.org