July 2022 - Help is Available for Seniors Facing Emergencies
If you’re a senior citizen living by yourself or you have an elderly relative who is adamant about maintaining their independence, you probably worry about what would happen in the case of an emergency. We all know that often in an accident or medical emergency, time is of the essence. A delay in response can mean the difference between a treatable condition and more serious consequences. But what happens when you can’t answer the door to admit emergency services?
Fortunately, we live and work in a community where residents and officials take the extra step to look out for one another. One example of this is Operation Blue Angel, a program offered by the township’s Police Department with the purpose of providing senior citizens living on their own emergency help when needed.
Under this program, a lockbox containing a key provided by the resident is installed on the door of the home. The lockbox is owned and maintained by the township’s Police Department, and accessible only by the officers responding to an emergency call at that address. In this way, emergency services can gain the access they need to give assistance without causing any damage to property.
Enrollment in Operation Blue Angel is free and available to township residents aged 55 or older who live alone or regularly spend extended time alone; those with certain medical conditions; or those who meet other criteria. You can learn more about this program or sign up to participate by visiting the Clinton Township website. Details can be found on the Police page under Public Safety.
Give yourself – and your family – a little peace of mind and check it out.