Autism for First Responders (2025)-Autism for Law Enforcement Flyer

Pdf Summary

This document provides essential information for law enforcement officers when dealing with individuals with autism. It emphasizes the importance of immediate action when an autistic person goes missing, as they are prone to wandering and are susceptible to abuse. It also highlights that individuals with autism cannot be identified by appearance but by their behavior. Officers should be aware that individuals with autism may have an underdeveloped upper trunk and are at a higher risk of positional asphyxiation during restraint, so they must adjust positions regularly. <br /><br />Furthermore, officers should understand that individuals with autism may not feel the cold and may not seek shelter if lost. They may engage in self-stimulatory behavior such as hand flapping or pacing, which is calming to them but may not appear calming to officers. Unless these behaviors pose a danger, officers should not interfere. <br /><br />When communicating with individuals with autism, officers should use short, clear phrases and be patient with their response time, as they may have difficulty understanding directives when fearful. It is also necessary to keep individuals with autism away from general prison populations to prevent abuse. <br /><br />Additionally, officers should be aware that many individuals with autism are nonverbal, and some may experience seizures. They should also familiarize themselves with the various names for autism, like Autism Spectrum Disorder or Asperger's Syndrome. <br /><br />To identify individuals with autism, families use various methods such as ID bracelets, threading IDs in clothing, or temporary tattoos with contact information. Officers should ask simple, short questions for identification and offer alternative communication methods like writing or typing. <br /><br />Other important considerations include the fact that individuals with autism are strongly attracted to water and may become agitated or aggressive when touched. Officers should also understand that certain household arrangements or behaviors like feces smearing may be a result of safety precautions or teaching methods rather than neglect or abuse. Officers should consult with case managers or school officials before reporting any concerns. <br /><br />Overall, this document provides valuable guidance for law enforcement officers when interacting with individuals with autism, emphasizing the importance of awareness, patience, and individualized approaches.

Asset Caption

Bulletin sheet with info

Keywords

autism awareness

law enforcement training

missing autistic individuals

behavioral identification

positional asphyxiation risk

self-stimulatory behavior

communication strategies

nonverbal autism

seizure recognition

safety precautions