Project Lifesaver

Register for a program that helps police locate individuals who may wander due to cognitive conditions

Is this an emergency?

If a participant is missing, call 911 right away. Early notification allows police to begin search and rescue efforts as quickly as possible.

Officer explaining lifesaver

Apply for Project Lifesaver

Review eligibility requirements and submit an application for the program.

Apply now

About the program

Project Lifesaver is a program administered by York Regional Police that uses radio-frequency technology and coordinated search and rescue response to locate individuals who may wander.

Participants wear a wristband transmitter that emits an FM radio signal every second, 24 hours a day. When a participant is reported missing, York Regional Police Search and Rescue responds and uses specialized equipment to locate the signal.

Who is this for?

Project Lifesaver is intended for individuals living with a cognitive impairment that may place them at risk of wandering.

To participate in Project Lifesaver, the individual must:

  • Reside in York Region
  • Be living with a cognitive impairment such as Alzheimer’s, dementia, autism or another condition that may place them at risk of wandering
  • Be monitored by a caregiver
  • Not be involved in unescorted activities that would increase the risk of wandering
  • Not operate a motor vehicle
  • Wear the equipment at all times and not remove the device

How it works

Apply for the program

Submit an application through York Regional Police.

Wear the transmitter

Approved participants wear a wristband transmitter that emits a continuous radio signal.

Maintain the equipment

The caregiver is responsible for ensuring the equipment is worn and functioning properly.

Report if the participant goes missing

If the participant has gone missing, call 9-1-1. Members in Communications will coordinate with first responders to begin searching for a Project Lifesaver participant.

Search and rescue response

York Regional Police uses specialized tracking equipment to locate the signal and assist in locating the participant.

After registering

As a caregiver, you are responsible for:

  • Making sure the participant wears the transmitter at all times
  • Keeping the equipment in good working order, including regular battery changes
  • Testing the equipment regularly to make sure it’s working properly
  • Contacting York Regional Police right away if the equipment is missing, not worn or not working
  • Sharing important health and behavioural information to help support search efforts