Project Lifesaver helps locate missing people

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - Time is crucial when a loved one or someone you know goes missing.

Now, the Department of Public Safety has a tool that can help cut that time.

Scott Rodgers lights up when he talks about Linda, his wife of 40 plus years.

"My wife is a music fan," Rogers said.

He showed 24 Hour News 8 a picture of them during their freshman year in college. Linda turned 59 years-old in January. She's now in a fight for her life.

"My wife was diagnosed with early on-set Alzheimer's 6 years ago," Rodgers said.

It was after that when Linda wandered off.

"We had one instance where we didn't have Project Lifesaver and we had to actually find her and that really drove home the point that this is a tool that saves lives," Rodgers said.

That's where Project Lifesaver comes in. It's a program designed to provide rapid response and help find someone missing.

"If they wander away and they can't find their way home...that's what this program is designed to help bring their loved one back home," said John Flutz with IFD.

The unit includes a bracelet with a personal transmitter device.

"Usually on the Alzheimer's patients or something we'll put it on the wrist, when it comes to the children or the kids, we'll put it around their ankle," he said.

If needed, the search team uses directional antennae. It helps find the patient faster in the event they go missing. So far 29 counties have the program and it's growing.

"There's just no question what it means to be able to find your loved one quickly," Rodgers said.

A first-year starter kit can be bought for $300. That includes a transmitter, battery tester, changer tools, straps and batteries. The maintenance cost after that is about $60 a year.

Right now, insurance doesn't pay for the device, so the Department of Public Safety is looking for funding or donations to help people who are on the waiting list.

Anyone who wants more information on Project Lifesaver can visit their website www.ProjectLifesaverIndy.org