Building Bridges: Why Police Interaction Matters for Special Needs Families

Interactions with law enforcement can be challenging for individuals with Autism, Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), Alzheimer's, and Dementia. The Montgomery County Police recognizes this and has established a dedicated outreach program to foster understanding and safety. This initiative aims to create a "culture of awareness" through education, outreach, and responsive support, ensuring positive interactions between law enforcement and these vulnerable populations. This program is vital for keeping our loved ones safe.

Wandering Prevention: A Critical Safety Concern

A significant concern for families is wandering. The Montgomery County Police, in partnership with Pathfinders for Autism, offers invaluable resources to address this issue. A recorded webinar featuring Officer Laurie Reyes provides crucial wandering safety tips in both English and Spanish.These resources empower families with practical strategies to prevent wandering and prepare for emergencies.

Practical Steps: Protecting Our Loved Ones

Key prevention strategies include installing alarms, informing neighbors, creating a 9-1-1 script, ensuring ID is always worn, and taking recent photos. Most importantly, if a loved one wanders, call 9-1-1 immediately. Prompt action is crucial for a safe and positive outcome. This proactive approach, combined with community support and law enforcement awareness, strengthens our commitment to protecting those with special needs.