HISTORY=========
of our program
In 2001, a town resident contacted the Pine Knoll Shores Police Department because he was concerned about the welfare of himself and his wife. He said that they had been very sick and stated that they did not have everyday contact with family or friends. He was afraid something might happen to him and his wife would become disoriented and not know what to do. He asked if we could call him everyday around 9:00 am to check on them. He did not want anything else - just call and check to make sure everything was "OK".
Since that time, we have called or stopped by their residence every day. This couple has now become a bright spot in our days. They have always called to inform us when we needed to change the schedule because they planned to be out of town or their family would be visiting. He has been very appreciative of the time we took out of our day, to make this personaI contact.
The Pine Knoll Shores Police Department is concerned about the safety and welfare of all our residents. If you have a need for our" I am OK" services, please give us a call. We are expanding this program so that we can better serve you.
"/ am OK" Program
We learned that many police departments across the country are providing this type of service to their citizens. The most common programs use an automated calling system, but ours is different. With our service, you will receive a call from one of our Town employees specially trained to make sure that you are "OK."
The Pine Knoll Shores Police Department continually strives to serve and assist the citizens of the community. The" I am OK" Program is a service provided for the disabled or homebound citizens. Subscribers to this service will be contacted daily by phone or by a visit to ensure their peace-of-mind and safety. This program will continue to ensure a better quality of life for the citizens of Pine Knoll Shores.
"I am OK" is a free service provided by the Pine Knoll Shores Police Department to the residents of the town. This service is an expression of concern for those residents that may find it difficult to maintain constant reliable contact with family or friends, or who might have had a situation that has rendered them helpless.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible?
This service is available to any resident of Pine Knoll Shores who is homebound, medically disabled or has special needs, either on a permanent or long term basis, regardless of age.
How do I sign up?
You may come to the police department to subscribe to this service by filling out an enrollment form or request that an officer comes to your home to assist you with this application.
What information do I need to give you?
The information on the application will include your address and phone number along with emergency contact names and phone numbers. This is very similar to the information asked for on the out-of town checklist.
How does it work?
Each morning you will receive a phone call, to check on your well being. The caller will say, "Good Morning! How are you, are you OK?" Your normal response might be a cheerful "Hello, yes, I am fine."
What time will I be called?
Calls will be made between 8:00 am and 10:00 am. The exact time of your call could vary slightly depending on the number of subscribers to the service.
What happens if I do not answer the phone?
If your phone is busy, or there is no answer, the caller will call back two more times. If there is still no answer or the line stays busy, the caller will immediately start emergency action. Please note: It is your responsibility to notify the police department if you are not going to be at home ..
What if my door is locked?
When you become a member of the" I am OK" program, you will be asked to identify other key holders who may assist in an emergency situation. I n the event that a key holder cannot be contacted, the resident must understand that forced entry into the residence may be required. Pine Knoll Shores will not be responsible for damages caused by a forced entry. While we will take great care in the decision to enter your home, if there is damage, the cost of repairs will be yours.
How do I stop the service?
To stop the service temporarily or permanently, call the Pine Knoll Shores Police Department at 247-2474 and tell us what you want to do.
"I am OK...a program designed for the wellbeing of our citizens.