Police Corner

By Joanna Robertson
PIO, Bethany Beach Police Dept.

For as long as I can remember, the Bethany Beach Police Department took special care of elderly citizens of our community. We always wanted to ensure those who live alone that they were not forgotten; therefore, we utilized the R.U.O.K. program. The purpose of this program is to let us know that they are safe and don’t need any type of assistance. It is particularly designed for people who live alone, so they have a chance to make contact with the police department at least once every day.

The way the program works is very easy. All participants fill out a “fact sheet” that includes their basic information as well as contact person information. Some participants provide us with a key to their residence. After the person is enrolled in the program, a computer-generated call goes out to his or her home, always at the same time of day (the time is set by the person), seven days a week. After the participant hears the call, there are two other calls that go out at a later time. If there is still no answer, a Bethany Beach Police officer attempts to make contact with the participant, which may include entering his or her home (this depends on the participant’s wishes). When the participant is out of town and is not able to answer the phone, he/she should notify the department about his/her absence.

Currently, there are 13 people participating in the program, and we are looking for more. The program is free and it is easy to operate. It guarantees privacy, accuracy, and effectiveness.