Police: Rapid Return

About the program

Rapid Return is an emergency locating system that utilizes cellular triangulation to pinpoint the exact location of adults and children who wander due to autism, Down syndrome, Alzheimer’s, dementia and other cognitive impairments.

How it works

Participants wear a small, watch-like, wireless device. If the participant wanders away, a caregiver calls 911, and a dispatcher contacts EmFinders to remotely activate the device. The device then transmits its exact location to the dispatcher, who relays the location to responding officers. The technology is an improvement over technologies like GPS, which cannot always provide an accurate location due to interference from buildings and infrastructure, and radio frequency tracking, which requires bulky equipment and allows only a small area to be searched at a time.

Peace of mind

Rapid Return not only helps protect the health and well being of children who go missing; it gives their caregivers peace of mind. The tracking device can be utilized even if the person enters a vehicle or leaves the county, providing even greater ability to find them when it matters most. To help locate the missing even more quickly, registrants will help police compile a file with information on each participant's conditions, medications and personal history, as well as a photo.

Participation requirements

• Live in Howard County
• Be medically diagnosed with a cognitive impairment or related diagnosis
• Be willing and able to wear the device at all times
• Have a history of wandering
• Have a caregiver providing constant supervision
• Not operate a motor vehicle
• Live in a private residence
   

Caretaker responsibilities

• Charge the device at least once a week
• Check the condition of the bracelet dialy
• Notify the Rapid Return team promptly if there is a problem with the equipment
• Call 911 immediately if a Rapid Return client goes missing

Costs

While supplies last, the program is being offered for free to new participants. Costs are subject to change.

Enroll today

An application must be filled out electronically using the below form. The completed file should be saved to your computer and then e-mailed to rapidreturn@howardcountymd.gov. After the application has been submitted, a Rapid Return team member will contact you. 

Rapid Return application (Microsoft Word format)  

Equipment FAQs

How frequently should a transmitter battery be changed?
The device must be charged at least once a week for approximately two hours. The EmFinders Operation Center remotely monitors the device's charge and will contact the caregiver if the signal is too weak.

Is the device waterproof?
The device is water resistant. It is designed to withstand submersion up to three feet of water for 30 minutes. This allows the wearer to shower or bathe without risk of water damage to the unit. The unit is not designed to be worn swimming.

What happens if something goes wrong with the device or it is lost?
Call the Howard County Police Department immediately at 410-313-3738.

More information

For more information, e-mail rapidreturn@howardcountymd.gov or call 410-313-3738.