Program Overview

Through the collaboration efforts of professional first responders, autism experts and pediatric therapy providers, The ISAAC Foundation has developed a community-based first responder training program: Autism in the Wild.  

This multi-faceted program strives to do more than simply identify the inherent challenges first responders face when interacting with members of our community touched by autism and other special needs.  Its objectives are:

• provide training for first responders on effective interaction techniques with individuals touched by autism
• provide parents with with members of our community touched by autism with tangible solutions to 911 encounters
• help to improve the quality of care and elicit positive outcomes between first responders and individuals with disabilities 

Department-wide coordinated training is available upon request.

Training on municipality facilitated special needs station visits for individuals with disabilities is available upon request.

TRAINING OBJECTIVES

• Assist first responders in understanding Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and recognize characteristics
• Provide tools for first responders to communicate and interact with individuals with ASD in an emergency situation
• Provide coaching on how to reduce or eliminate dangerous behaviors that could lead to otherwise harmful outcomes
• Demonstration on best escort and restraint practices, if necessary

TRAINING TOPICS

• Intro to ASD and classifications and severities
• Frequently used terms associated with ASD
• Sensory systems and sensory integration dysfunctions related to ASD
• Various forms of ASD communication and challenges associated with clear communication
• Encounter strategies specific to first responder job requirements
• Use of weighted blankets in the field
• Missing persons searches
• Use of ISAAC Alert 911 dispatch registration
• Instruction on use of escorts and therapeutic holds

TESTIMONIALS

“This will be a very helpful tool in dealing w/individuals on the ASD spectrum. I was definitely skeptical initially, but I am now excited at the prospect of the station visits.”

“Very well organized and presented. Both instructors worked great together presenting the material.”

“Excellent Instructors able to bring their personal experience to the class and explain the ‘why’.”