Autism Training for First Responders: An Essential Need

The awareness and understanding of autism among first responders such as emergency medical technicians, police officers, and firefighters are crucial for providing effective and compassionate service. While some departments offer training, the overall situation remains worrying.

Availability and Utilization of Training

Autism training is available in many states, but the question that arises is whether it is widely adopted and utilized. One source of training in my state is an initiative by a former police officer who is also a parent of an autistic individual. The training content is praised for its appropriateness and relevance, aligning with the needs of first responders dealing with autistic individuals.

However, the effectiveness of such training is questionable when considering the national discourse on autism. Statements from autism organizations suggesting that autism is "treatable" can be misleading. This language gives the impression that there is a cure for autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which is not accurate. Autistic individuals may experience various challenges that can be managed, but these challenges do not stem from a "treatable" condition.

Insufficient Training and Its Impact

The current state of autism training for first responders in many regions is inadequate. A majority of medical staff, ambulance drivers, and firefighters lack any formal training regarding autism. This gap in knowledge can lead to miscommunication, misunderstandings, and potentially harmful situations during emergencies. For instance, an untrained first responder may misinterpret the behavior of an autistic individual as disruptive or defiant, leading to excessive force or inappropriate interventions.

There are exceptions, such as the 2011 'autidelict' video produced in the Netherlands for Dutch police. This video outlines some strategies for understanding how autistic individuals may respond to police interactions. However, the video has seen limited viewership and has not been widely disseminated, indicating that the response to autism training in this context is not as robust as it should be.

Call to Action for Advocacy and Training

Professional organizations and individuals involved in services for varying levels of autism are encouraged to engage with public safety organizations and advocate for comprehensive autism training. These presentations can play a vital role in promoting awareness and understanding among first responders.

Training for first responders should include:

Basics of autism spectrum disorders, including different subtypes, symptoms, and typical behaviors. Strategies for effectively communicating with autistic individuals during emergencies. Understanding the potential triggers that may cause anxiety or distress in autistic individuals. Proper intervention techniques to ensure safety and reduce the risk of escalation.

By providing such training, we can bridge the gap in knowledge and equip first responders with the skills necessary to handle emergencies involving autistic individuals with confidence and compassion.