RUOK

In order to watch over some of our seniors that live alone, The Lewiston Police Department uses a program called RUOK. It is a program that does exactly what the name implies, it checks to see if you are "ok".

LPD started to use this program in the early 1990's and today uses an extremely updated version. A computer completely dedicated to this program calls the elderly at a specified time, chosen by them. When they answer the phone a friendly recorded message plays and they can simply hang up. If they do not pick up, they are called again in 15 minutes. If for whatever reason they still fail to pick up, an "alert" flashes on the computer and all pertinent information is printed out. At this point a contact person, relative or neighbor is called to go over and check on the person. If a contact person is unable to be contacted a patrol will be sent immediately to check the welfare of the person.

Over the years this has proven to be a very successful program and has saved a few lives. LPD encourages anyone in Niagara County that feels they need or knows someone who needs this service, to contact the department at (716) 754-8477.