Be First 2 Respond Training is suitable for parents, educators, law enforcement, fire rescue, public safety, emergency medical response teams, hospital ERs, 911 dispatchers, social services, and criminal justice agency personnel.

Research indicates that persons with developmental disabilities are approximately seven times more likely to come in contact with law enforcement professionals than others. Police and first response professionals will meet children and adults with autism in field situations.

Over the coming years this number will increase dramatically. Fifteen years ago autism was rare. Currently, autism strikes 1 in 110 children, a ten-fold increase. Because autism affects 4 to 5 times as many boys as girls, approximately 1 in 70 boys are affected. In fact, today autism is the most common childhood developmental disability.

The rising populations of children are coming of age. Adolescents and young adults with autism will be less confined to supervised settings and more active in public places. “Odd” behaviors prompt concern and anxiety in an unknowing public and first responders increase the likelihood of possible emotional or physical trauma to the individual with autism.

Be First 2 Respond seminar provides the skills and knowledge necessary to recognize and appropriately deal with these encounters.

The Training Will:

• Increase Officer and Citizen Safety;

• Enhance Officer Communication and Response Skills;

• Save Valuable Time and Resources;

• Avoid Litigation;

• Build Community Partnerships.