TeleAlarm acquires SafetyCare, changes name

READING, Pa.--TeleAlarm, a provider of emergency response systems, announced April 17 it has acquired Hackensack, N.J.-based SafetyCare, a provider of life-safety monitoring. In the lead up to the deal's completion, TeleAlarm undertook a $2 million renovation of its 8,000-square-foot headquarters in the former Bachman's Pretzel factory here to accommodate the addition of SafetyCare's staff and technology. Post-acquisition, the combined company will be known as SafetyCare Technologies. "We are pleased to be acquiring the assets of SafetyCare, as it is only one of a few companies globally incorporating life-safety monitoring with other health and wellness services," said Mike Bodnar, general manager of new SafetyCare Technologies, in a provided statement. TeleAlarm is a provider of an emergency call system service, which is linked wirelessly to a main station. The wireless device, in the form of a bracelet or pendant, also tracks customers in case of emergency. Now, with the SafetyCare buy and new central station, TeleAlarm is able to offer an integrated emergency call system for senior care facilities and home-bound customers. With the addition of SafetyCare personnel, TeleAlarm acquired a staff of dedicated first responders who provide monitoring service and care to seniors and individuals with special needs. SafetyCare Technologies customers will now be able to access the 24-hour-a-day system by pressing a button and immediately gain voice contact with an experienced first responder at the company headquarters. The operators include emergency medical technicians, counselors, police, fire and emergency dispatchers, all of whom have years of experience working with people in a crisis situation. "Instead of simply providing 'panic button' services, SafetyCare [now] includes press-button counseling and other help," said Darcie Borden of Jaffe Communications, the PR firm that handles the newly-monikered SafetyCare Technologies. "Customers will be able to press a button and get immediate help, and be directed toward someone who is a qualified counselor. That's just one of the examples of the out-of-the box services that are included."