LPD's 'list' helps seniors, others

About 40 people have signed up to participate in the "Friends of the Linton Police Department" program since it was started last spring by Police Chief Troy Jerrell.

Geared toward senior citizens and other individuals who live alone, it's a registry designed to provide officers with vital information should they be called to their home in case of an emergency.

Citizens may sign up for the program at the Linton Police Department, listing the basic information they would want an officer to know.

"When we get called to the house of someone the officer doesn't know, and they don't have a caregiver or family member there, this information helps us to make sure we get hold of the right people to get them whatever help they need," said Jerrell.

When a person registers, besides their name and basic information, they can list any illnesses they may have, what kind of medication they're taking, the name of their doctor and anyone else they might want the police to call.

"We've been utilizing this program and already had some nice successes with it," said Jerrell. "Having this information has really helped us in being able to quickly contact family members."

Jerrell said it's a good idea to keep this information handy in the home, but registering with the program adds an extra layer of safety and means the officer will have this info when he gets to the door.

The information in the registry is confidential, kept on file at the police department, and may be changed whenever necessary.

For more information, contact the Linton Police Department at (812) 847-4411.