Emergency Beacons Available to Seniors

Arnold’s Aging and Disabilities Commission is looking for an organization to help distribute the 120 remaining emergency beacons.

The beacons convert a traditional porch light into a flashing light. The light can alert emergency personnel what residents’ homes need medical help, and it can alert neighbors if an elderly resident has an emergency.

The beacons are free to seniors and people with disabilities, Commission Chairman Bill Knittng said during a meeting on March 24.

The beacons consist of two components: a screw-in component that fits into existing porch light sockets and a 3-position light switch. The switch has an on, off and flashing setting.

“We need to find a group dedicated to future pick up of the switches and for distribution,” Knitting said.

Commission members work full-time schedules and have families. It can be difficult to find time to deliver switches to all the people in need, several commissioners said.

The commission would continue to find grants and financing to buy the switches, Knitting said. Another community-minded organization would provide the switches to the public.

Arnold Director of Administration Greg Hall said he would talk with the Rock Community Fire Protection District about future switch distribution. 

He also said he would talk with Arnold Parks and Recreation Director Susie Boone about an event, in April, to giveaway the switches at the Arnold Recreation Center, at 1695 Missouri State Road.