Carrollton Police Launch Autism Support Kits

Carrollton police have introduced a new, innovative tool to better serve and support individuals with autism in their community. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by autistic individuals, they have been equipped with specialized kits designed to improve communication and ease interactions during emergency situations. These autism support kits are now part of their standard equipment, offering a much-needed resource to enhance their response when encountering autistic citizens.

“In the case of an emergency, we are going to encounter autistic citizens who either don’t recognize the danger that they’re in or the danger has overwhelmed their senses, and we need to find a way to make a connection with them,” Sgt. John Martin explained. His words emphasize the growing awareness among first responders of the need for tailored approaches when dealing with autism.

These autism support kits contain a variety of tools designed to meet the sensory and communication needs of individuals on the spectrum. Communication boards, ID/information sentence starters, and reassuring phrases are included to help officers quickly establish a connection, even when verbal communication may be challenging. Additionally, sunglasses and sensory items, such as fidget tools, are provided to help manage sensory overload, which can often occur in stressful or chaotic environments.

The Carrollton police department recently received 10 of these kits. Each kit is a small, portable resource officers can carry with them to use when needed. Sgt. Martin highlighted the importance of these tools, noting how often their department responds to calls involving autistic individuals.

“It’s come to light that there are a lot more autistic citizens than we thought,” Martin said. “We on average have one call per week or 52 in a year. You’ll see instances where someone has a light sensitivity or a hearing sensitivity or they lack the ability to speak, and in those cases, we need to be able to meet them where they are.”

The sensory items, such as the sunglasses, provide immediate relief to individuals sensitive to light, while fidget toys or other tactile objects help soothe those feeling overwhelmed by their environment. The communication boards offer a non-verbal way to understand and respond to the individual’s needs, helping officers to quickly assess the situation and offer appropriate support. These kits empower officers to bridge the communication gap and minimize stress during emergencies.

The department is confident that these autism support kits will have a positive impact on how they serve the community, ensuring that autistic citizens are approached with the care and understanding they need. The availability of these kits reflects a growing recognition of the diverse needs within the community, particularly when it comes to emergency services.