Autism Shield for First Responders - Wood Ridge 

The actions or non-responsiveness of people with autism are almost always misinterpreted by untrained individuals. Inappropriate social responses and non-contextual emotional outbursts, commonly seen in people with autism, can cause confusion at best and spark conflict in worst case scenarios. The inability to follow complex or even simple directions during an emergency or crisis situation can lead to serious injury or worse. Without training and awareness of this condition, tragic consequences often ensue when effected individuals come in contact with law enforcement. However, these contacts can often be easily resolved when the officers and professionals involved have the information they need to navigate what can be a complex situation. Research shows that persons with autism and other developmental disabilities are approximately seven times more likely to come in contact with law enforcement professionals than a member of the general population. Children and adults with autism now live, work, go to school and recreate in the community in increasing numbers. Law enforcement professionals and emergency services providers will have field interactions with the autistic population, their parents and care providers. The primary goal of this project is to make the general community a safer place for people with developmental disabilities. Specifically this project will:

• Make law enforcement officers (LEO) and first response professionals aware of the condition of autism, its symptoms, and the characteristics commonly seen in individuals who are affected.
• Provide information to enhance better recognition of a person with autism and response methods for officers in field situations.
• Identify public safety risks for people who have autism, predictable contacts and 911 dispatches.
• Explain the problems that a higher functioning person with autism may have in criminal justice situations.
• Provide LEO with behavioral de-escalation techniques and restraint and arrest options.
• Provide methods for law enforcement agencies to proactively work with individuals with autism, their families, and advocacy organizations and apply tolerance and public relations skills when doing so.