‘This cuts that down significantly:’ New program could help find your missing loved ones, faster
A brand new program designed to find missing people is now live on the City of Jacksonville’s website. The city, alongside Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Fire Chief, Keith Powers, and Jacksonville Sheriff, TK Waters, announced the launch of R.E.V.A.M.P Duval, on Thursday.
It’s a proactive way to help find your missing loved ones by giving police and first responders information up front, just in case.
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“Having access to vital information such as photos, frequently visited locations, critical medical conditions and communication needs, allows first responders to better assist,” Mayor Lenny Curry said. “First responders will utilize the information caregivers provide to aid in search and rescue.”
Action News Jax told you back in January of 2023 when 78-year-old Germilus Nonord went missing. He was found dehydrated, lying down, but safe nearly three days later. The MEPSAR—or missing endangered persons search and rescue program—played a big role. It starts with a 911 call, where information is collected to build a profile.
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Then, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office collaborates with Jacksonville Fire and Rescue to build a map of the areas where there’s a high probability of finding that missing person. During a Thursday news conference, we learned its helped find 104 people, including Nonord.
“94 of the 104 were found alive,” Mayor Curry said. “Sometimes against all odds.”
This new program, R.E.V.A.M.P Duval, will help cut that search process down.
“They’ve told me around two hours it’ll save on the front end-- which is huge,” Jacksonville Fire Chief, Keith Powers, said.
“You have to consider the initial call, the response, the questioning from families, getting everything you can and then getting that information out,” Jacksonville Sheriff TK Waters said. “This cuts that down significantly.”
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The program is meant to help find those with Alzheimer’s, dementia, or autism. However, you can register your family member if you believe they are at-risk for wandering off.
“First responders will utilize the information caregivers provide to aid in search and rescue,” Mayor Curry said. “Having access to vital information such as photos, frequently visited locations, critical medical conditions and communication needs allows first responders to better assist.”
You can click here to register or call 904-255-3172
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