Life's WORC, a private, not-for-profit organization providing comprehensive support for individuals with developmental disabilities, has launched a new program designed to provide the Long Island region’s first responders with training on how to recognize an autistic individual and best respond to them during an emergency situation. The first training program has already occurred with the Seaford Fire Department and EMTs. Plans are underway to roll out the program to other fire, EMT and police department across the region.

Autism is, in fact, increasing at a rapid rate. The latest statistics from the Centers for Disease Control indicate that 1 in 91 children in the United States have an autism spectrum disorder. That figure is even higher for boys at 1 in 58.

Covered extensively in the Life’s WORC First Responders Autism Training Program are factors that first responders might encounter when an individual with autism is involved in an emergency or crime situation. For starters, there may be no visibly outward signs that the individual has a disability, and while some individuals with autism may be very verbal, others may not speak at all. Similarly, there are varying degrees of intelligence. What is a common trait for many autistic individuals is their difficulty relating to others, poor communications skills and often, a display of repetitive behaviors.

In addition to recognizing the characteristics of an individual with autism, the Life’s WORC First Responders Autism Training Program focuses on training first responders to look for signs that would identify the individual as having autism such as an ID card or bracelet, or sticker on a home’s window. When a fire rescue is involved, the first responders learn that they may encounter more barriers such as locked or nailed windows, Plexiglas or Lexan windows and/or fences with locked gates that may require different tools. Additionally, children as well as adults with autism may hide in closets, under a bed or behind furniture. When conducting the rescue, the first responders learn that it is important to note that an individual with autism may attempt to run away after the rescue and therefore, it is important that someone always stay with them.

The Life’s WORC First Responder Autism Program also provides guidelines relating to EMT rescues, de-escalation techniques in a crisis situation, and how best to restrain an individual with autism when necessary.

For more in-depth information about this program, or to schedule a training session for your fire, EMT or police department, contact: Brian Goldman, M.S., Psychology Program Director, Life’s WORC at 516-741-9000, ext. 465.