Richmond, Va. — In an effort to foster better understanding and improve safety, the Richmond Police Department, in collaboration with the Autism Society of Central Virginia (ASCV), hosted a crucial seminar on February 8 designed to help individuals with autism navigate emergency situations. The seminar aimed at building trust between the autism community and first responders, ensuring that interactions during high-stress emergencies are handled with more awareness and compassion.
The event, held at a local community center, provided hands-on training for individuals with autism and their families, focusing on vital skills such as how to react when pulled over by police, how to make a 911 call, and the necessary steps to take in case of a house fire. These scenarios, often overwhelming in high-pressure situations, were discussed in a supportive environment, with the goal of reducing anxiety and increasing preparedness.
For Lincoln Edwards, a second-time attendee, the training has already had a noticeable impact. “If I almost get pulled over or something bad happens, I feel like there’s a pain in my chest between my heart and my stomach — it’s triggered by anxiety,” Edwards explained. However, after attending the seminar, he said he feels much more comfortable dealing with potentially stressful encounters. “If I were to get pulled over, it wouldn’t be that frightening for how most people think it is,” he added.
One of the key takeaways from the seminar was the importance of disclosing an autism diagnosis to first responders. Participants were encouraged to mention their diagnosis during a 911 call or to consider adding an autism spectrum indicator to their driver’s license. Such steps can help first responders better understand how to approach each situation with greater empathy and care.
First-time attendee Michael de Groot reflected on the seminar, noting that the training gave him the confidence to handle emergency situations with greater ease. “When you get pulled over, I just pull over and give my name and driver’s license, so I don’t get in a heap of trouble,” de Groot shared. “I say I’m a friend, and I have autism, and also, I’m Michael de Groot.”
This event highlighted the growing need for awareness around autism and the unique challenges faced by individuals on the spectrum, especially during emergencies. By equipping both individuals with autism and first responders with the necessary tools and knowledge, the seminar took an important step toward ensuring safer and more effective interactions in times of crisis.
The seminar was met with positive feedback, with many attendees expressing gratitude for the valuable skills they gained and the opportunity to build a stronger, more trusting relationship with local first responders. As the event concluded, it was clear that initiatives like these could make a lasting difference in how individuals with autism are supported in emergency situations.
