FRISCO, Texas, April 4, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- EmFinders®, maker
of the EmSeeQ® wearable locator device for individuals prone to
wandering due to medical impairments, today announced AT&T will
wirelessly connect its EmSeeQ bracelets over the AT&T network
to 911 operators across the country to locate wandering or missing
individuals.
The watch-like EmSeeQ device is specifically designed to quickly
locate individuals with Alzheimer's disease, Down syndrome,
dementia or autism in the event they wander off or become lost.
Upon notice by a caregiver, EmFinders activates the device which
then places a secure call and communicates its location over the
AT&T network to the nearest 911 operator, just like a standard
wireless phone. The EmFinders system uses U-TDOA triangulation to
accurately determine the wearer's location, even inside buildings
or in environments that would typically interfere with standard GPS
locators.
The technology greatly reduces the search and rescue timeframe
in wandering situations. EmFinders can typically locate the device
wearer in less than 30 minutes—a rapid recovery that can save
precious time and public resources and help prevent a tragic injury
or death.
"For many, the EmSeeQ is a second line of defense that can help
return loved ones home quickly and safely," said Glenn Lurie, president of emerging devices,
resale and partnerships, AT&T. "This is an important innovation
that can dramatically improve the way some people live. By
connecting through the AT&T wireless network, we're using a
tested location technology to help those who can't call for help
themselves."
The EmFinders system has already been used to recover and return
numerous individuals safely and quickly to the care of their loved
ones in California, New York, Virginia and other locations across the
country. The system is effective not only in the wearer's immediate
home territory, but anywhere within the expansive reach of the
AT&T network, allowing individuals to retain their independence
and travel without worry.
"Despite a caregiver's best efforts, it only takes a minute to
lose track of someone. The feeling of helplessness when you are
desperately trying to locate that person can be a very painful and
stressful experience," said Jim
Nalley, Co-Founder of EmFinders. "We designed EmSeeQ to give
caregivers and their loved ones peace of mind and ensure that those
who become lost have a safe and timely way home."
For more information about the EmSeeQ wearable locator device,
visit www.emfinders.com.
For the complete array of AT&T offerings, visit
www.att.com.
About EmFinders
EmFinders, based in Frisco,
TX, is a new technology company that has developed a device
and subscription service for locating people with Alzheimer's or
other impaired adults and children who wander and become lost. The
wearable device and locator service uses advanced cellular
technology to locate lost individuals, even if they wander inside a
building, under a structure or just about anywhere. The device
becomes activated on remote command and the locator service works
in coordination with emergency responders. EmFinders is a privately
held subsidiary of Liberty Media Corporation attributed to the
Liberty Capital group (NASDAQ: LCAPA), which owns a broad range of
electronic retailing, media, communications and entertainment
businesses. For more information, visit
www.emfinders.com.
About AT&T
AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T) is a premier communications holding
company. Its subsidiaries and affiliates – AT&T operating
companies – are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. With a
powerful array of network resources that includes the nation's
fastest mobile broadband network, AT&T is a leading provider of
wireless, Wi-Fi, high speed Internet and voice services. A leader
in mobile broadband, AT&T also offers the best wireless
coverage worldwide, offering the most wireless phones that work in
the most countries. It also offers advanced TV services under
the AT&T U-verse® and AT&T | DIRECTV brands. The company's
suite of IP-based business communications services is one of the
most advanced in the world. In domestic markets, AT&T
Advertising Solutions and AT&T Interactive are known for their
leadership in local search and advertising.
Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products
and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is
available at http://www.att.com.
SOURCE EmFinders