Autism Training
R.E.A.C.T.
Recognition & Evaluation of Autism Contact Training
R.E.A.C.T. will provide attendees with the tools necessary to increase safety for both First Responders and people with Autism or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
R.E.A.C.T. Includes
- Providing tips for communicating with people with Autism or ASD
- Discussing best scene management techniques in regards to ASD and other disorders, especially involving people affected by Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)
- Reviewing de-escalation techniques and why they are an important first option
- Introducing resources available to assist First Responders beyond this training session
R.E.A.C.T. Goals
At the conclusion of this training program, responders to accident, emergency, and other intervention scenes will be able to:
- Recognize individuals with ASD or sensory processing disorders by checking the response scene and evaluating the individual’s physical and behavioral cues.
- Determine an individual’s ability to communicate with the responder, with or without assistance from the caregiver.
- Apply established techniques to manage verbal and non-verbal behaviors in people with ASD or sensory processing disorders in order to elicit necessary information for working the response scene.
- Apply established techniques for protecting the physical safety, well-being, and privacy of a person with ASD or a sensory processing disorder during a response event.
- Assess behavioral cues to select and apply appropriate techniques when physical contact (i.e. touching or restraining) is required to care for an individual.
- Apply search and rescue procedures in the context of individuals who may lack appropriate fear or consideration for personal safety.
- Identify preventive measures to prevent wandering and other physical safety issues in people with ASD, and recommend these measures to caregivers.
