A search and rescue program that assists people who have autism, dementia or any kind of disorder to cause them to wander off is available if needed in Walnutport.

Borough police Chief Jason Nothstein informed borough council last week that the Bethlehem Health Bureau received a grant for Project Life Saver that is free to the public.

Nothstein said the Bethlehem Health Bureau was able to purchase and provide all the equipment including the bracelets that has the radio frequency that would have the track.

“It’s a phenomenal program,” Nothstein said. “If anyone knows anyone in the borough who has a tendency to wander, tell them to come see me and I can help them out with that.”

Councilwoman Patrice Hunsicker said, “That’s awesome.”

Nothstein said more information on Project Life Saver is available on the group’s website, projectlifesaver.org.

Rave Alert

Also last week, Nothstein said he has contacted multiple companies and received prices for CodeRed, but that most of the prices “are ridiculous.”

The CodeRed system is a high-speed mass notification used by government to send out emergency alerts to residents via phone, text, and email.

Nothstein noted that the borough has been paying $2,000 a year for CodeRed “and do nothing with it.”

Nothstein suggested a program called Rave Alert in which residents choose if they want to have text messages, phone calls, email, or all the above.

Nothstein said The Walnutport Authority has a contract that expires March 31, 2027.

He said the borough could be added. The $3,100 cost could be split between both The Walnutport Authority and the borough.

If approved, it would go into effect Jan. 1.

Borough Mayor Wayne Weidner said he was for Rave Alert.

“As long as it’s advertised that way, I think we have a better chance,” Weidner said.