For the first time in Caribou, Matt Brown from Maine Autism Institute offered training for local first-responders on June 6 at Teague Park Elementary School. Brown has been in law enforcement for more than 30 years and has a 17-year-old son with autism.
“This is the kind of thing, in my opinion, that is going to save someone’s life someday,” Brown said.
The training focused on the safety of children in a school setting.
Brown reviewed different types of developmental disabilities with the local EMT’s, police officers and firefighters who attended. One in every six children, he said, is affected with a developmental disability, the most widely known being autism.
Some of the common symptoms impacting the safety of children with autism are sensory issues, self-stimulatory behavior and processing delays. Brown discussed ways in which to approach individuals with autism, and how being aware of these symptoms can avoid triggers. Common triggers include a change in their routine and sensory processing overload. Asking questions and explaining is important to keep a steady dialogue, and to keep any situation calm.
“Take every opportunity to advertise it,” Brown said. “The more that they see us in a routine situation, the better it’s going to be in an emergency.”
While first-responders went through training, they also had the opportunity to interact with children and their parents. All were welcome to tour the emergency vehicles and talk with personnel. Being right next to Teague Park, the first-responders were very busy with curious, young minds.
“The information that he provides is amazing,” Penny Jackson, Caribou middle school teacher, said in regard to Brown. “They’re wonderful for coming out.”
Brown encourages all parents of children with autism to register them at their local police department. It could make all the difference in the outcome of a situation, and allows the first-responders to better assist them.
Reinforcing skills in school and at home is also important. Inviting local law enforcement into the school environment to interact with children on a regular basis allows for positive interaction, Brown added.
