Dementia wristbands keep residents safe

As part of Dementia Action Week, Avon Fire and Rescue Service (AF&RS) is urging residents to request dementia wristbands to help keep loved ones safe.

According to the Alzheimer’s Society there are currently around 900,000 people in the UK affected by dementia. AF&RS’s wristbands utilise Near Field Communications (NFC) to help protect and safeguard people with dementia.

Since the launch of the wristbands in October 2020, AF&RS have received a huge amount of interest, with an increase in requests for Home Fire Safety Visits (HFSV) and general email enquiries from individuals and families of people living with dementia.

Nikki Rice, Risk Reduction Manager, said,

“To help keep our communities safe, we want to provide these wristbands to help protect and safeguard people with dementia. 

We hope these devices will provide some reassurance to families who may be worried about their loved ones at risk. If you, a family member, or someone you care for would benefit from a wristband and you live in our Service area, please get in touch to arrange a visit.”

Using NFC technology, the wristband stores essential information about the wearer, including their name and next of kin. The information can be accessed via the NFC app when a mobile is held near the wristband, alleviating the need for physical contact which can cause further distress.

This information can be used by emergency services, health professionals or community members to get the wearer back to safety should the individual be lost or confused.

The bands are free of charge and a visit can be booked by visiting the AF&RS Home Fire Safety Visits page or by calling AF&RS on 0117 926 2061.