Times Observer photo by Brian Ferry Warren County Sheriff’s Deputies Jake Johnson and Ashley Peterson work on the Senior Check-In Program station.

Sometimes, it’s important just to check in.

The Warren County Sheriff’s Office’s Senior Check-In Program is up and running.

The system provides automated outgoing calls from the sheriff’s office to subscriber’s phones.

If for some reason the subscriber is unable to answer, the system gets the attention of deputies who can reach out to family or go check on the person.

“This program is a telephone reassurance system or call check-in service for friends and family of a senior citizen,” Deputy Ashley Peterson said. “Loved ones who find it difficult to maintain consistent contact or who are concerned about elderly loved ones’ safety can use the system for added security. If needed, emergency response will be provided.”

“This program allows senior citizens who prefer to live independently to remain safe and to provide them with the added security of being monitored for safety by a loved one,” Peterson said. “If the Senior Check-In subscriber does not answer the telephone after a present number of call attempts, an alert is given visually and audibly at the Warren County Sheriff’s Office.”

That scenario automatically generates a printout including emergency contact and phone number, medical history, doctor’s name and contact information, and other information.

“If the emergency contact is unavailable to go check on their loved one, the Sheriff’s Office will designate a deputy to go to the residence and conduct a welfare check,” Peterson said.

The service is free to senior citizens in Warren County and subscribers determine the details of their subscriptions. “Subscribers decide what information they wish to provide, what days of the week they want to be called, and at what times they want to receive the automated call,” she said. There is no obligation. Subscribers may cancel at any time.

The system is up and there are subscribers, but Peterson is still making adjustments. “If subscribers get different messages on the same day, it’s because I’m making adjustments,” she said.

Subscribers who have questions or people who are interested in more information about the system may contact Peterson at (814) 723-7553. The three-page registration form may be picked up at the Sheriff’s Office at 407 Market St. Those who are unable to pick up the form in person may contact Peterson for assistance.