Wandering can be unpredictable, especially during emergency scenarios like natural disasters, evacuations, or medical events. Having a clear plan in place can make all the difference. Below are essential steps to help you prepare and protect your loved one:
1. Develop a Comprehensive Plan
- Establish an emergency support team: Identify trusted family, friends, or neighbors who can assist in a crisis. Ensure they know how to access your home and have clear instructions and relevant medical information.
- Create a communication plan: Set up a phone tree, group message, or shared contacts list so you can quickly notify your support network and relevant authorities during an emergency.
- Identify safe places and evacuation routes: Plan the safest exit routes from your home and neighborhood, especially considering mobility needs. Choose shelter locations in advance, such as relatives’ homes or local emergency shelters.
- Arrange alternate caregiving: Have a backup caregiver in place in case you’re separated from your loved one during an emergency.
- Practice and rehearse the plan: Run occasional drills to ensure everyone involved knows their role and responsibilities.
2. Secure the Home Environment
- Install secure locks: Use deadbolt locks that require keys on both sides or other secure locking mechanisms to prevent unsafe exits.
- Set up alarm systems: Add battery-powered door alarms or integrate home security systems that notify you when exits are opened.
- Conceal exits: Use visual deterrents like “STOP” signs or decals to reduce exit-seeking behavior.
- Create safe wandering spaces: Designate an area in your home or yard where your loved one can move around freely without hazards.
- Improve lighting: Ensure hallways, entryways, and stairs are well-lit; use nightlights or motion-activated lighting when necessary.
- Remove tripping hazards: Keep pathways clear and rugs secured to prevent falls.
- Secure dangerous items: Lock up firearms and medications safely.
3. Utilize Wander Rescue Devices and Services
- Enroll in Wander Rescue: Sign up to access identification tags with unique codes and set up caregiver contact info, medical needs, and communication preferences.
- Make the wearable a daily habit: Incorporate the wearable into your loved one’s routine to ensure it’s always on them. It’s designed to be discreet, durable, and comfortable.
- Enable and test notifications: Ensure your devices (phone, tablet, computer) are set up to receive Wander Rescue alerts promptly.
- Inform your community: Let trusted neighbors and local emergency responders know that your loved one is enrolled in Wander Rescue. Share a current photo and description of the wearable.
- Run practice scenarios: Simulate a “found” situation to make sure everyone knows how the Wander Rescue system works and how to respond.
- Keep records up to date: Regularly log in to your account to update contact information and medical details.
4. Prepare Emergency Kits
- Build a “Go Bag”:
This is a bag you keep at home, ready to grab when your loved one is found after wandering or during an emergency. It should include:- Medications
- Copies of medical and legal documents (insurance, power of attorney, etc.)
- Clothing, water, and non-perishable snacks
- A recent photo of your loved one
- Comfort items like a favorite blanket or toy
- Keep documents accessible: Store digital or paper copies of identification, health records, and caregiver instructions in the Go Bag or in a secure online folder.
5. Know What to Do If Wandering Occurs
- Start searching immediately: Begin with your home and nearby areas.
- Call 911 quickly: If your loved one isn’t found within 15 minutes, report them missing and notify the dispatcher of any health conditions or vulnerabilities.
- Share important info: Be ready with a photo, description, last known location, and any known triggers or behaviors.
- Monitor for Wander Rescue alerts: If someone scans the wearable’s code, you’ll receive an alert via text or email. Make sure caregivers’ devices are set to receive these.
- Respond swiftly: Once notified, follow the instructions in the alert to contact the person who found your loved one and coordinate a safe reunion.
Final Thoughts
Emergencies can be chaotic, but planning ahead can reduce stress and save lives. By implementing these strategies, caregivers can significantly reduce the risks associated with wandering during emergencies and enhance the safety and well-being of those under their care.