Local families now have a valuable tool to help first responders better understand and interact with individuals with autism during emergencies. Autism decals are available for vehicles and homes, providing a visual cue to law enforcement, firefighters, and EMS personnel that someone with autism may be present.
These decals are crucial because individuals with autism can react differently to stressful situations. Overstimulation from flashing lights, sirens, or even direct questioning can lead to behaviors that might be misinterpreted as non-compliance or aggression.
Someone with autism might exhibit flapping, rocking, intense emotional outbursts, or withdrawal due to sensory overload or difficulty processing the situation. They may also struggle with eye contact, which can be mistakenly perceived as evasiveness.
"The decal is a way of letting officers, firefighters, and EMS know in advance that someone with autism is there," explains Sharon Draeger, Project Manager of the Behavioral Pediatrics Resource Center. "It allows first responders to anticipate potentially different reactions and adjust their approach accordingly."
The Behavioral Pediatrics Resource Center, under the leadership of Dr. Michelle Zeanah, has been instrumental in bringing this initiative to life. They have also worked closely with the Bulloch County Sheriff's Office and the Statesboro Police Department to provide comprehensive training on autism awareness and interaction. This training equips first responders with the knowledge and skills to effectively communicate with and support individuals with autism during emergencies.
"We are really grateful to the Statesboro Police Department and Bulloch County Sheriff's Office for working so closely with us to make this program happen," Draeger says.
Families can obtain up to three decals free of charge from either the Sheriff's Office on 301 North or the Statesboro Police Department on West Grady. While not required, families are also encouraged to fill out an optional emergency information form. This form provides additional details about the individual's specific needs, potential triggers, and preferred communication methods, further assisting first responders in providing appropriate support. The form also includes the make and model of the family's vehicle, so dispatchers can alert first responders that someone with autism may be in the vehicle.
The Behavioral Pediatrics Resource Center, located at 406 Savannah Avenue, is committed to raising autism awareness and fostering a more inclusive community. They will be present at the Statesboro Farmers Market every Saturday in April, offering information, resources, and a unique calming tool: pinwheels. These pinwheels demonstrate a breathing technique that can help individuals self-soothe during stressful moments.
"We want people to understand that individuals with autism can thrive in our community," Draeger emphasizes. "They can drive, hold jobs, and excel in school. The decals, along with community education, are vital steps towards destigmatizing autism and promoting understanding."
The Behavioral Pediatrics Resource Center is also exploring the possibility of offering staff development training for other organizations, further expanding autism awareness and understanding throughout the community. For more information about the autism decals or other resources, please visit the Behavioral Pediatrics Resource Center's website.