07/18/2024
Our Search and Rescue team is very skilled at helping locate individuals who may wander due to Alzheimer’s, Dementia, TBI, or developmental disabilities. Before reaching a point where wandering occurs, there are some preventive measures you can take.
• Secure Your Home: Install home security systems, door alarms, hidden locks on doors, window sensors, and both interior and exterior cameras.
• Carry Identification: Ensure the loved one carries some form of identification or wears a medical bracelet. This helps others understand their condition and where they live if they get lost and can't communicate clearly.
• Inform Neighbors: Let neighbors and local community members know about the loved one’s tendency to wander. Ask them to notify you immediately if they see the person alone and moving about.
• Label Clothing and Keep a Sample: Place labels in the loved one's clothing for identification purposes. Also, keep a piece of their worn, unwashed clothing in a plastic bag. This can aid search and rescue dogs in finding them.
• Keep Recent Photo or Video: Maintain a recent photograph or video recording of the loved one. An updated picture will help SAR job easier when searching for them.
Pictured below is SAR Deputy Teske, SAR Deputy Espeland, SAR Sergeant Sanders and Amie representing the incredible volunteers with Snohomish County Volunteer Search & Rescue. These individuals are often leading the search mission when a loved one wanders away from home in Snohomish County.
