Elderly and the physically impaired will be able to get help in the event of an emergency at the touch of a button thanks to a new device launched by Integrated Cabling & Security Solutions (ICSS).

The Church Street-based security firm, which is run by the father and son team of Larry and Dwain Smith and specialises in voice and data cabling, security and fire alarms, and video surveillance, brought its first batch of the MediPendant personal emergency response systems this week, having tested it out on the Island since the start of this year.

The device, which hangs easily around the neck or on the arm and can be activated from anywhere within 600 feet of the base station, works by the user pressing the button on the pendant if they are in trouble, which then makes a telephone call to an EMT-certified emergency operator in a call centre based in the US.

The operator will answer the call within 45 seconds and ask how they can help and, if needed, will immediately call 911 and/or a listed contact, cutting out the need to look up any numbers or dial the phone, and stay on the line until help arrives.

Dwain Smith said he was invited by the providers of MediPendant to try it in Bermuda – its first market outside of the US, and he set up a deal with North Rock Communications to carry the service through a normal phone line.

He said the device has a number of applications ranging from personal homes to nursing homes, for those with medical problems or seniors worried they might be in danger and need to call out the Police.

"I refer to it as a 24-hour companion in that you can use it is always there and you can use it whenever you want," he said.

Hilary Soares, of Paget, who is the ICSS' first client for the new product and has been using it for the past week, said it gives her peace of mind in the event of an emergency.

""I know that I am well taken care of with this device," she said. The MediPendant, which costs $299 to install and $25 per month service, comes with a wallet card ID programme and is also in Braille and available in Spanish, as well as providing a back-up battery life of up to 30 hours and a lifetime warranty.

To get a MediPendant installed in your home or for more information about the product contact ICSS on 295-4277 or email DSmith@icss.bm

Further details can be found at www.medipendant.com