Autism Society of Indiana Gives Picture Communication Boards to Westfield Emergency Responders

A simple laminated piece of paper will be a benefit for police officers and firefighters helping some of Westfield’s residents. The Autism Society of Indiana provided 100 picture communication boards that will be placed in the vehicles of all first responders in the City of Westfield.

The boards will give police, firefighters and Emergency Medical Services, a way to communicate with people who are nonverbal, speak limited English, have autism or other disabilities or mental health issues.

“This is another important tool that our officers can use to assist our citizens who struggle with communication,” said Westfield Police Chief, Joel Rush. “This donation from the Autism Society of Indiana will help us to better protect that segment of our community. The pamphlets allow officers to better communicate with people by allowing them to point to pictures, words and letters.”

Joanne Tedesco with the Westfield Mayor’s Council on Disabilities, says that the communications boards are one solution to the challenges that people with disabilities in Westfield face.

“We know that approximately 1 in 44 children in the United States is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In some individuals, ASD presents communication challenges where some are completely non-verbal and rely on other communication devices and alternatives. Having these visual cues will help alleviate fear and anxiety levels and allow individuals to communicate in a comforting and effective way. These boards will also help stroke victims, those with traumatic brain injury or mental health challenges, get their message across.”

Westfield Police and Fire personnel also received a training video on how to properly use the communication board. The Autism Society of Indiana is equipping first responders in 60 Indiana counties with communication boards.