Dodge County Project Lifesaver is affiliated with Project Lifesaver International (PLI), a non-profit organization dedicated to training and providing equipment to locate people who have a tendency to wander due to conditions including Alzheimer’s, Dementia, Autism and Down Syndrome or other cognitive conditions. The person wears a small (wristwatch-size) transmitter on their wrist or ankle which sends out an FM signal at a specific frequency. This signal is used to locate them in virtually any environment if they wander, including areas where GPS signals will not work. The Dodge County Sheriff’s Office has personnel trained and equipped to respond 24 hours a day at the request of a family member when their loved one wanders and is not immediately located. Our agency believes in this program and in its lifesaving potential. Over 3,000 lives have been saved since PLI began with an average recovery time of about 30 minutes. Project Lifesaver participation increases the likelihood of finding a loved one, reduces search time, resources and personnel needed. 

Who is this program for?

Any person who has a tendency to wander due to cognitive conditions such as Dementia, Autism, Alzheimer’s, Down Syndrome or other conditions. The client needs to have a 24-hour caregiver who will check the battery every day and who will be able to call 911 to report the person missing. There is a possible option for those who meet the requirements but do not have a 24 hour caregiver. Please contact the Agency Coordinator for more information.

Is there a cost?

Yes, but the cost is minimal. Dodge County Project Lifesaver purchases all equipment and provides it to the client. Currently there is a $10 per month fee which will be invoiced annually and prorated. This fee goes back into the program ONLY to fund additional equipment including, additional transmitters, batteries, wristbands, etc. Dodge County Project Lifesaver has been working with Dodge County Human Services and other organizations in the event a client or their family is truly unable to pay the fee and options are available. The startup for the program was funded entirely by the Dodge County Dementia Concerns Coalition. 

For more information on the program and to sign up, please contact Lt. Brian Loos by EMAIL or 920-386-4117.

Sign up Forms:

Project Lifesaver Program Contract

Client Profile

Caregiver Instructions

Client Check Sheet