This article is from page 29 of the 2008-03-25 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 29 JPG
SECURITY for older people is the focus in Scariff this month, with the Community Alert Group reminding people that they can avail of grants for personal and fire alarms.
The group was formed in 2004 and has eight voluntary members.
The purpose of the group is to ap- ply for funding to help with the in- stallation of security devices for older people.
Available at a reduced rate are smoke alarms, out-door lighting, door locks and the social monitored rE veene
“Last year when we had a push, most of the older people in the area got the social monitored alarm and we want to urge people who may not have one or who have qualified for it in the last year to get it installed,” a spokeswoman for the group said.
“The social monitored alarm is the most popular device as it offers a great sense of security and safety. Many of our parishioners already have this alarm and we would en- courage them to wear the pendant at all times, especially if they are alone for any length of time.
“It is of no use if it is left hanging on a hook on the wall or tucked in-
side a drawer, as without the pendant you cannot activate the alarm.”
The system works through the phone system and is activated by a special pendant carried on the per- son. Once the alarm is sounded, the monitoring company will first try ringing the alarm’s owner.
If they cannot answer, each of three nominated keyholders will be con- tacted until someone can be found to go to the person’s aid. If none of the keyholders can be contacted quickly, the monitoring company contacts the emergency Services.
The Department of Community, Social and Family Affairs is now
giving a full 100 per cent grant for the alarms. However, there is an an- nual monitoring fee of €98.
‘We want to make sure that every- one is aware that there is a grant for these and other security aids and that we can apply for that grant for peo- ple aged 65 and over and for those in receipt of a disability pension,” the spokeswoman said.
For more information, contact any member of the Community Alert Group including Chairman Do- nie Bane on 061-921469, Secretary Carmel Gooney on 061-921226 or Treasurer Geraldine Rodgers on 061- 921269.