Police Chief Jeffrey Bukunt, Council on Aging Director Jane Carthas and Fire Chief Robert Spurr are pleased to announce a new Safe Return Program designed to help first responders locate individuals prone to wandering and becoming lost.
As part of the new program, Avon officials have launched a registry for residents with Alzheimer’s, Dementia or other memory loss disorders or cognitive disabilities that may require special attention from first responders. The program aims to help create a safer community for vulnerable residents.
The registry will provide the Council on Aging, police and fire departments with access to critical information about individuals in the event that they wander from their residence. The registry includes emergency contact information, a detailed physical description, known frequented places, favorite local attractions and other pertinent information to help first responders know where to look immediately.
The information will be kept on file with Avon Police, Fire and dispatch. It will only be used if first responders are called upon in the event the person is reported missing. Officials encourage family members or caregivers to update the forms annually or as important information changes such as the individual’s address, emergency contact or photo.
Avon Safe Return forms may be picked up at the Police Station, 86 Fagan Drive, or Avon Council on Aging at the Town Hall, 65 E Main St. The form can also be downloaded from the Avon Police website.
Those interested in signing up for the registry must fill out the Safe Return Form with all mandatory fields completed and provide a recent photograph of the individual. Completed forms and photos can be emailed to Sheri Carney at scarney@avon-ma.gov.
